Karnataka: Govt releases new guidelines for schools and colleges

On Sunday, the Karnataka government has issued an advisory, stating that all social and cultural events, including conferences, seminars, academic events, etc. in educational institutions must be postponed for two months, as reported by Mint.

The official statement noted, “conferences, seminars, academic events, etc. in educational institutions, wherever possible may be postponed. Alternatively, it could be conducted in hybrid mode, i.e. with minimal physical attendance and with more persons attending through virtual mode." Further, the official statement said, “..the symptomatic should be tested and treated as per the guidelines already issued." 

The advisory was released after Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai chaired a meeting on Saturday. Bommai said that in regard of the recent Covid-19 cases in Mysuru, Bengaluru, and Dharwad, certain restrictions are being imposed. He also asked the officials to bring strictness in the Covid-19 guideline and increase vigilance on the State’s borders, especially of Kerala and Maharashtra bordering districts, and increase recce on National Highways.

Karnataka Revenue Minister, R Ashok said, “Make the second dose of vaccination compulsory for those working in government offices, malls, hotels, cinema halls, zoos, swimming pools, and libraries."

Bommai said, “Earlier international passengers were tested but asked to go home and quarantine themselves. Now test them there itself (airport) and allow them to leave after they test negative." 

Further, he added, “We haven’t seen that strain in Karnataka but in places like Dharward, Mysuru, and Bengaluru hostels we have seen spurts of cases spreading rapidly making their clusters. We have to take precautions."