Schools In India To Reopen From September 21? Fake WhatsApp Message Goes Viral; PIB Reveals The Truth

A viral WhatsApp message is doing rounds on social media claiming that the Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal has said that schools will reopen in a phased manner from September 21. The claim states that schools will be reopened for students of Class 1 to Class 12 in a phased manner from September 21. Rubbishing the fake claims, a fact check by the Press Information Bureau (PIB) stated that the WhatsApp message is fake and the Education Minister has not made any such statement. According to guidelines under Unlock 4, students of 9th-12th class can go to school for consultation with teachers. MHA said that schools, colleges, educational and coaching institutions will continue to remain closed for students and regular class activity up to September 30 and online/distance learning shall continue to be permitted and shall be encouraged.