Shillong, Nov 21: The Khasi Students Union (KSU) has strongly opposed an order issued by the district administration of East Khasi Hills which asked the school authorities to withhold the examination results of students who have not given the Measles–Rubella vaccination.
“We strongly oppose such decision as it is in violation of the student’ rights,†the KSU said in a statement issued here on Wednesday.
It asked the state government to ensure that such notification is immediately revoked, and stressed that more awareness should be conducted on the importance of such vaccination.
The order was issued by the Deputy Commissioner of East Khasi Hills who is also the Chairman of District Task Force for Immunization (DTFI).
Based on the order of the District Administration, the District School Education Officer (DSEO) issued a letter to all principals of higher secondary and secondary schools in East Khasi Hills District.
“You are requested to kindly comply with the directive laid down therein and withhold the examination results of those students who have refused vaccination till the district administration gives the clearance. The same may be applied to new admission,†the order said.
The Federation of Khasi Jaiñtia and Garo People (FKJGP) also opposed the order saying, the decision to accept or refuse the vaccination lies with parents of the students.
FKJGP Assistant General Secretary, Elton Cliff Warjri said, “Many parents did not get their children vaccinated due to fear that their children might fall sick especially after seeing reports in the media.â€