In a notable development for education access in Jammu & Kashmir, the government primary school in Kewal village, Rajouri district, reopened its own building for students after being shut since 2000 due to a land dispute. The school had been operating in a cramped rented facility until the issue was resolved this week.
Resolution of the Land Dispute in Rajouri School
The school’s closure stemmed from a long-standing dispute with the landowner, who had locked the school building and disrupted its use. Acting on directives from the Deputy Commissioner of Rajouri and the Chief Education Officer, district officials intervened and held discussions with all stakeholders. After negotiations, the landowner agreed to restore access and the school building was unlocked and made ready for students. Officials reported that the three-room building was inspected, functional, and students were shifted back to their original premises. The reopening marks a significant administrative achievement in ensuring that children attend school in their community rather than in rented premises.
How School Reopening Impacts Local Education?
For the children of Kewal and nearby villages, this reopening brings several positive changes:
- Improved learning environment — Students now have access to a dedicated school building instead of limited rented space.
- Local access — Children no longer need to travel far or study in makeshift facilities.
- Community morale boost — Parents and villagers expressed relief and appreciation for the restored facility and renewed investment in basic education infrastructure.
The event is also a sign of improved administrative coordination and education governance in rural areas of Rajouri district.
What This Means Going Forward for the School?
The shift back into the school building is just the beginning. To ensure sustainable benefit from the reopening, the following actions are needed:
- Infrastructure upgrade — The building must meet current norms related to classrooms, sanitation, and teaching resources.
- Staff deployment — Qualified teachers should be assigned or reassigned to the school without delay as the normal classroom schedule resumes.
- Community monitoring — Local village councils (panchayats) and parent-teacher associations should monitor enrolment, attendance, and maintenance of the facility.
- Regular funding flows — The school must receive timely funds for maintenance and teaching-learning materials to avoid regression into sub-standard conditions.
District officials have confirmed that they will track progress and ensure the school remains fully operational after its reopening.
