Private schools decide to remain open Tuesday

The association of private schools in Tamil Nadu Monday decided to go back on their decision to close private schools Tuesday demanding the release of former chief minister J. Jayalalithaa.

The Federation of Associations of Private Schools in Tamil Nadu (FAPSIT) said it had decided to reversee its earlier decision.

"All member schools would function as usual. However, the management officials of the schools will participate in a hunger protest" in support of the demand for Jayalalithaa's release, the official told IANS.

FAPSIT secretary D.C. Elangovan said schools would function as usual Tuesday taking into account students' interests.

As per the earlier decision, around 4,500 private schools would have closed their gates Tuesday demanding the release of jailed Jayalalithaa.

The FAPSIT justified its decision to strike one day on grounds that Jayalalithaa had given impetus to the school and higher education sectors by higher budgetary allocations.

However, the decision was strongly opposed by several political leaders and parents saying it would set a dangerous trend for the future and send a wrong message to the students.