For most school children, summer vacation is a season of joy — a time for travel, play, and carefree days. But this year, the relentless rains in Bengaluru have not only spoiled vacation plans but also triggered concerns over the early reopening of private schools, allegedly in violation of state guidelines.
The Karnataka government has officially scheduled the reopening of schools for the 2025–26 academic year on May 29. However, despite heavy downpours and flood-like conditions in several parts of the city, some private schools have already resumed classes, cutting short the summer break for students.
Over the past week, the capital has witnessed continuous rainfall, with several low-lying areas inundated. Water has entered homes, making daily life a struggle for many families. Amid this chaos, a few prominent private schools have gone ahead and started academic sessions even before the official commencement date, drawing sharp criticism from parents and child rights advocates.
"Children are still technically on summer vacation, and reopening schools under such weather conditions is not only unsafe but also unfair to the children," said Yogananda, President of the Parents Coordination Committee. He added that some schools have reportedly been pressuring parents to send their children to school through WhatsApp messages.
Parents are understandably hesitant to send their children to school given the current weather scenario. “There is constant rain, roads are waterlogged, and it’s unsafe. Yet, we’re being told that classes have started,” said a concerned parent from Jayanagar. Many expressed frustration over private institutions placing academic pressure above student welfare.