However, while the DC has ordered late opening of schools, the ground reality is the order did not reach schools in time.

PAU Government School principal Sanjeev Thapar said, “We did not receive the orders till four in the afternoon. So the change in the timings will be effective from January 25. When students attend school tomorrow, we will tell them about the change in the school timings.” Similarly, Ryan International School principal Jayshree Gupta too expressed ignorance about the orders. “Our Montessori students go back home around twelve noon while the rest of the school closes at 2 pm. We are not aware of any such order.”

Kundan Vidya Mandir principal S C Saxena too added, “Our school as such opens at nine in the morning. But as far as the orders are concerned we have no information.”

When asked whether DC orders apply to private schools as well. Saxena added, “Normally, the DC specifies whether the order is for private or government schools which is followed accordingly.” The order issued by the DC is addressed to all school and has not specified any special category.

Meanwhile, District Education Officer Sudesh Bajaj said,” The orders have left my office and we have also informed the press. Thus, in a way they are out. By tomorrow all the schools will get the orders.” When asked that this would mean delay in implementing the orders, Bajaj said, “This happens. Schools will know that the orders are out after they read the news in the media.”