The Associated Management of Primary and Secondary Schools in Karnataka (KAMS) has withdrawn its support for the Karnataka bandh called on August 13 by Kannada organisations protesting the release of Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu.

The association said schools would remain open on August 13, while extending moral support to the bandh.

Explaining its decision, the association said academic activities had already been significantly affected by the deputation of teachers for the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise. The closure of schools would further disrupt academic activities, particularly in government-aided schools that are already facing an acute shortage of teachers, it said.

As a symbolic gesture of support, school management representatives, teachers and non-teaching staff will wear black ribbons or black bands on the day of the bandh, the association said.

The association also suggested that schools use the occasion to sensitise students to the Cauvery water dispute. “Students from classes five to 12 can be imparted facts about the dispute either during the morning assembly or in the classroom,” it said.

The association appealed to Kannada organisations and the state government to ensure the safety of school buses, students and teachers during the bandh.

(Inputs from Deccan Herald)

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