Several schools and higher educational institutions remained closed in Islamabad after capital law enforcement reported threat of terror attack by some militant groups.
School Holidays in Punjab
In response to unverified reports of potential terror threats, several schools and higher education institutions in Islamabad remained closed. Law enforcement in the capital reported the perceived risk, leading to precautionary closures. Concurrently, social media platforms were flooded with posts claiming a one-week holiday for schools and colleges in Punjab due to security concerns.
Fake Notifications and Sham Alerts
False notifications circulating on platforms like X and Instagram, as well as through messaging apps, contributed to the confusion. Unverified notifications, purportedly from private schools and the Interior Ministry, falsely announced the closure of educational institutions. A particularly misleading notification claimed that the Punjab School Education Department declared holidays in anticipation of upcoming elections.
Fact-Checking and Official Responses
To address the circulating misinformation, Pakistan Observer sought clarification from relevant authorities. Official sources, including the Punjab home department and education department, denied issuing any notifications regarding school closures. The fake reports also extended to unverified claims of an eight-day closure in February, aligning with alleged election schedules. The interim government of Pakistan, however, has not officially declared any such holidays.
Caution Against False Reports
False reports about school closures during elections can create unnecessary anxiety among students and parents. Authorities advise people to verify information through legitimate and official channels to prevent confusion. In times of uncertainty, relying on accurate and confirmed sources remains crucial to maintaining public trust and preventing unnecessary disruptions in daily life.
