West Bengal government permits reopening of all primary and upper primary schools from February 16

For the first time since COVID-19 outbreak, the West Bengal government today allowed reopening of schools for primary, upper primary classes from February 16. However, in an attempt to exercise caution, the official readout indicated that the night curfew will remain in force between 12 midnight and 5 am.

In addition to the relaxations already in force with earlier orders, following additional relaxations have been notified with effect from February 16:

a)Movement of people and vehicles and public gatherings of any kind shall now be prohibited between 12 midnight to 5 AM. Only essential and emergency services shall be permitted.


b) Opening of all primary and upper primary schools. A separate Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) will be issued by School Education Department in this regard.

c) Opening of all ICDS centres. A separate Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) will be issued by Women & Child Development and Social Welfare Department in this regard.