Schools reopen in Rawalpindi after days of disruption

Three major private school organisations confirm decision to resume classes across private institutions

The All Pakistan Private Schools Associations has announced that all educational institutions in the Rawalpindi district will reopen on Monday as per routine, following several days of disruption due to Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan protests in twin cities.

In a joint declaration, the three major private school organisations confirmed the decision to resume classes across private institutions. President of the All Pakistan Private Schools Management Association (APPSMA) Punjab chapter, Abidar Ahmad Khan, also confirmed the reopening.

The Punjab Education Department updated its official website to confirm that schools would be open from October 13. According to the notification, all public and private schools, colleges, and universities across the Rawalpindi district will resume normal operations from Monday.

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The head of the District Education Authority Rawalpindi also confirmed the reopening of educational institutions. However, it was clarified that schools in District Jhelum, which falls under the Rawalpindi Division, will remain closed until further notice.

Authorities in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, placed both cities on high alert — blocking major entry points with shipping containers, suspending metro bus operation, and partially cutting mobile internet.

While the TLP maintains that its march is a peaceful demonstration of solidarity with Gaza, government officials have accused the group of exploiting religious sentiment for political purposes.

A Punjab Police spokesperson said the 'violent and armed protest' by TLP has no connection with humanitarian concern, adding: “This cannot, in any way, be considered an expression of solidarity with the oppressed people of Gaza. Its only purpose is to disrupt peace and public order.”