PSAJK President urges J&K Govt to announce four-day Eid-ul-Adha holiday

SRINAGAR: The Private Schools’ Association of Jammu and Kashmir (PSAJK) has requested the J&K Government to declare four-day holiday — from June 6th to 9th June, 2025, on the occasion of Eid-ul-Adha, including the Day of Arafah (June 6), to ensure the smooth observance of the festival and to avoid commuter disruptions.

In a statement issued to the media, PSAJK State President G.N. Var highlighted that the Day of Arafah, which directly precedes Eid, is marked by heavy traffic congestion and significantly reduced student attendance due to Eid preparations and shopping, especially affecting school operations and transportation.

“On June 6 the Day of Arafah movement across the city and towns becomes extremely difficult due to severe traffic jams. Both parents and school authorities struggle to pick up and drop off children. Under such conditions, continuing academic activities becomes impractical,” said Var. He further noted that attendance remains drastically low during the Arafah and the third day, of Eid leaving schools nearly empty. Teachers are often compelled to repeat lessons due to poor turnout.

“In this important religious occasion and to avoid confusion for parents, teachers and students, we respectfully appeal to the J&K Government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Education Minister Sakeena Itoo Ji to declare holidays from June 6th to 9th. This clarity will allow all stakeholders to plan accordingly and celebrate with peace of mind,” he added.

PSAJK stressed that since Eid-ul-Adha involves rituals spread over three days, with Qurbani often performed up to the third day, a four-day break is both practical and culturally considerate.  PSAJK hopes that the J&K Government will give due consideration to this request in the larger interest of students’ well-being, public convenience and religious harmony.