The Khasi Students Union (KSU) and Federation of Khasi Jaiñtia and Garo People (FKJGP) on Wednesday strongly opposed an order of the Government that asked schools not to publish the results of those students who had refused to be administered Measles–Rubella vaccine.
This order was issued by the Deputy Commissioner of East Khasi Hills, who is also the Chairman of District Task Force for Immunization (DTFI) to all the District School Education Officer (DSEO).
“You are requested to kindly comply with the directive laid down therein and withhold the examination results of students who refused the vaccination till the district administration gives the clearance. The same may be applied to new admission,” the order issued to the DSEO said.
The order also said that the Measles–Rubella vaccination in East Khasi Hills district up to date was very low as many students refused the vaccination.
The DSEO also issued the same order to principals of all higher secondary and secondary schools in the district.
The KSU said that it strongly opposed such a decision as it is in violation of the student’ rights and asked the state government to ensure that such notification is immediately revoked.
The Union stressed that more awareness campaign should be conducted on the importance of such vaccination.
The FKJGP also opposed the order, and said that the decision whether to accept or not the vaccination lies with parents of the students.