LUCKNOW, Jan. 2 -- Chief minister Yogi Adityanath has ordered closure of all schools up to Class 12 until January 5 due to a severe cold wave in Uttar Pradesh. The order applies to all ICSE, CBSE and UP Board schools across the state, a spokesperson said on Friday.

The chief minister said the safety of children is paramount during the cold wave and any negligence in this regard will not be tolerated, according to a press release. Adequate arrangements for blankets and bonfires must be ensured at public places in all districts, Yogi said and issued special instructions to officials regarding the operation of night shelters.

The state government is committed to ensuring that no poor or needy person suffers during the ongoing severe cold w...