Srinagar

Private Schools Association of Kashmir (PSAK) has expressed concern over the “unabated braid chopping” incidents happening in the valley which has created fear psychosis among students at all levels in schools, colleges, universities and coaching centres.

The Association in a statement said that the incidents happening in almost every district has affected the students both physically and mentally. “Girl students fear to come to schools, boys fear to venture into outside areas as the former might be victim of braid chopping and later getting accused of such incidents by mobs. Both academics and extra-curricular activities stand affected.”

“It has disturbed the student community entirely. Even the discussions and normal talk in educational institutions start and end with braid chopping incidents.”

The Association said that the failure of government to nab the culprits has made situation worse. “Our biggest victims have been students at coaching centres. These students both boys and girls used to come for tuition early morning and leave late evening, but now they fear to attend classes. Girls and their parents don’t want to take any risk and fear they may be their next target,” said PSAK president GN Var.

The Associations said that the state had done tremendous progress in girl education but now the braid chopping incidents is hampering the same. “We had never encountered such a situation where girls fear to go to schools and colleges. Even in 90s girl education was never hit, but now the situation is terrifying for girls,” said Var.

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The Association said that schools and colleges are worried at the timing of these events as it is the time of annual examinations. “Annual examinations have commenced or are about to start and here girls are living in fear. In absence of any assurance they live in fear and can’t concentrate on the education at this crucial juncture,” said Var. “We fear that if such incidents continue many of our girl students may suffer in their examinations.”

The Association called on the government to provide foolproof security to all educational institutions particularly those reserved for girls.

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