After the half-day leave was announced on January 22 for the Ram Mandir Pran Pratistha ceremony many government officials and educational institutional authorities were left anxious and confused.
The official notification, released on January 18, declares a half-day leave for all state government offices and educational institutions across Assam until 2:30 PM on January 22, 2024. However, the practical implications of this decision are leaving many in a state of confusion.
Speaking to GPlus, an employee from a renowned school near Guwahati Club expressed frustration, stating, "While we have circulated the government's notice, it seems somewhat pointless as our school day is nearly over by 2:30 PM. In practical terms, we anticipate minimal student attendance on January 22."
Another professor from Pragjyotish College shared a similar sentiment, saying, "Teachers and staff are expected to be present, but uncertainty looms over whether students will attend classes or not. However, if there are practical classes scheduled, students will need to attend despite the half-day."
A student from Gauhati Commerce College talking to GPlus said, "This is very confusing for us because many students commute from the outskirts of Guwahati. It's unclear if attending classes for a few hours is feasible for them."
The impact of the half-day leave extends beyond educational institutions, as a restaurant owner on GS Road highlighted. Speaking to GPlus, the owner stated "Many customers assume our restaurants will also remain closed due to the half-day holiday on January 22. It should either be a total holiday or not at all. This half-holiday is affecting our business, as customers may choose to stay home instead."
Another store owner in Ulubari said, “Many are telling us that the half-day bandh will be implemented in shops as well. Though there has been no notification from the government for the public in general, many are saying that the shops will be closed.”
The half-day confusion preceding the Ram Mandir Pran Pratistha ceremony in Guwahati has left various sectors grappling with uncertainty. From educational institutions facing potential low attendance to businesses experiencing customer apprehension, the practical implications of the announced half-day leave have triggered concerns among residents.