Punjab halts exams, closes institutions following border security alerts

In response to rising tensions between India and Pakistan, the state of Punjab—sharing a 532-kilometer border with Pakistan, has announced the closure of all educational institutions and the suspension of ongoing examinations.

On May 9, IKGujral Punjab Technical University in Jalandhar declared that, with the necessary approvals, all end-semester exams have been postponed until further notice, citing unforeseen circumstances.

A revised examination schedule will be released at least five days before the new start date.

To support citizens during this period, the Punjab government has established a control room, which can be reached through the landline numbers 0172-2741803 and 0172-2749901.

Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains announced that all government, private, and aided schools, colleges, and universities across the state will remain closed for the next three days due to the developing situation.

Late May 8 night, six border districts, Ferozepur, Pathankot, Fazilka, Amritsar, Gurdaspur, and Tarn Taran experienced blackouts following attempted intrusions by Pakistani drones.

In Chandigarh, which serves as the joint capital of Punjab and Haryana, authorities have also ordered the closure of all schools until Saturday.

Additionally, early May 9, the Border Security Force (BSF) neutralized a Pakistani intruder in the Ferozepur sector.

All police personnel have been called back from leave, and Punjab Aam Aadmi Party chief Aman Arora reaffirmed support for the Indian Army, noting that the Punjab Police, referred to as the “second line of defense,” is fully equipped to respond to any threats.

He said, “The police force of Punjab will stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the Indian Army to give a befitting reply to any Pakistani attack.”

The state government has appealed to all residents to strictly adhere to official advisories and instructions to ensure public safety.