Bangladesh continues to see record numbers in deaths and cases as a result of the new variants of Covid-19, and it remains imperative that every institution and individual does their part in ensuring the situation does not keep getting worse.
To that end, however, it is very worrying to see that, despite the government directive for all educational institutions to stay closed till May 22, several Qawmi madrasas have been continuing to hold classes and examinations.
For example, a Dhaka Tribune report found that around 3,000 students participated in the Dawra-e-Hadith exam that began in early April, that too without maintaining social distancing or wearing masks.
Mass gatherings have consistently been stated as the worst offenders when it comes to aiding the spread of Covid-19, and this continuation of classes and examinations is a serious violation of what are supposed to be strict directives, and they undermine the authority of the government of Bangladesh.
Furthermore, those responsible for this decision are exhibiting a complete disregard for the safety and well-being of not only the staff and students of the madrasas, but also citizens in general. The fact that officials of certain madrasas were unwilling to comment and allow pictures to be taken speaks volumes, and shows that they too are aware that what they are doing is unacceptable.
At this juncture, there is no alternative but to come down hard on these institutions, and ensure that, just like other educational institutions, they are following rules meant for everyone. There is no justification for letting them get away with blatantly flouting regulations and endangering the lives of their fellow citizens.
