Patna DMs Complaint Over School Closure Correspondence Sparks Controversy

Patna DM Chandrashekhar Singh expressed frustration over ongoing correspondence with the Education Department regarding school closures due to cold weather. Meanwhile, a 10-year-old boy in Muzaffarpur passed away after returning from school, raising concerns about student safety.

In a recent development, Patna District Magistrate (DM) Chandrashekhar Singh has filed a complaint to Chief Secretary Amir Subhani regarding the incessant correspondence from the Education Department. The dispute arose due to the closure of schools in Patna district amidst the intense cold wave conditions.

School Closure Sparks Controversy

On Tuesday, DM Singh issued an order to shut down all schools up to class 8, anganwadi centers, and coaching centers in Patna until Thursday due to the prevailing cold wave. However, this decision was met with objections from the Education Department.

Education Department Raises Concerns

Director of Secondary Education Kanhaiya Prasad Shrivastav wrote to DM Singh, seeking an explanation for the circumstances that led to the closure of schools. He pointed out that the DM did not obtain permission from the state education department before ordering the suspension of classes up to 8. Shrivastav added that the department would seek legal counsel after receiving a response from Singh.

DM Seeks Chief Secretary's Intervention

In response to the Education Department's letter, DM Singh sought the intervention of Chief Secretary Subhani. He emphasized the need to put an end to the continuous exchange of letters between different wings of the government for better administrative functioning. Singh highlighted that the roles and responsibilities of each administrative wing have been clearly defined and must be respected.

Cold Wave Grips Patna

Patna experienced a minimum temperature of 10 degrees Celsius and a maximum temperature of 13.9 degrees Celsius on Wednesday, intensifying the cold wave conditions. While the administrative dispute unfolded in the state capital, a tragic incident occurred in Muzaffarpur district, approximately 70 kilometers away.

Tragic Incident in Muzaffarpur

In Muzaffarpur, a class six boy reportedly died after returning from school. According to the family, the boy was shivering due to the cold when he attended school. He was sent home immediately, but unfortunately, he passed away upon reaching home. However, Muzaffarpur DM Pranav Kumar stated that he had no information about the incident. He advised residents to stay home and take precautions due to the cold wave conditions.

The ongoing dispute between the Patna DM and the Education Department highlights the need for better coordination and communication within the administrative machinery. The tragic incident in Muzaffarpur further underscores the urgency of addressing the challenges posed by the severe cold wave. It remains to be seen how the chief secretary will intervene and resolve the dispute, ensuring the smooth functioning of the administration and the well-being of the citizens.