Authorities of the Jalpaiguri Government Engineering College (JGEC) have postponed the classes and exams of its first, second and third year students indefinitely after the detection of Covid-19 cases on campus.

The JGEC issued a notice to this effect on Saturday. Those staying at the hostels have been told that they can leave for their homes.

However, final exams of the fourth year would be held from June 16 according to schedule.

According to college sources, over the past few days, at least six students tested positive. Among them, two are admitted to the super-specialty hospital here.

On June 4, the JGEC annual fest was held where hundreds of students assembled for different events. “We suspect the contagion spread from the fest as after the event some students showed suspected Covid symptoms, their swab samples were tested and eventually six tested positive. That is why these precautions were taken,” said a source.

“The fourth-year students have been asked to be on alert. All faculty members, staff and students have been asked to start using masks and sanitisers and take all other precautions,” added the source.

Though the classes and exams have been postponed, the administrative offices of JGEC will continue to function.

“If any surge in Covid cases is recorded in the coming days, appropriate decisions would be taken. The district health department is aware of the issue and they have decided to conduct rapid antigen tests of the fourth year students from June 16,” an official said.