Schools in Mumbai to remain shut until further orders says Maharashtra Education Department 

A letter was issued by the deputy director's office on Wednesday which had led to major confusion regarding the re-opening of schools in the city.

The letter mentioned following all the guidelines in respect to the re-opening of schools in the state for classes 5 to 8. Another circular was released the same evening clarified that the final decision of reopening the schools would be taken by the local authority.

Recently, there has been a decision taken regarding re-opening of the schools overall the state from January 27. However, the final decision regarding the re-opening of the schools lies with the local authority. The schools in the city won't reopen until further orders, as per the BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation orders in the past.

The principals were confused because of the inconsistency in the orders issued by the civic body and the letter. "We were wondering as to why such a circular was issued when the guidelines mandate schools to remain shut in the city", said Anil Bornare of Bharatiya Janata Party teacher's cell.

Sandeep Sangave, deputy director of education for the Mumbai region said that the letter issued on Tuesday in no way invoked the re-opening of schools in the city. " The letter had an implied reference to the department's order and the local administration's call in the matter. However, it seems to have caused confusion. Hence, we clarified that the final decision of re-opening will be as per the orders of the local authority " he added. A circular stating the clarification was also issued late Wednesday evening.

In other parts of the state, schools for class 9-12 have begun from November 23. While those for classes 5-8 will begin from January 27.