The Supreme Court today stayed until Sunday a High Court verdict that directed the authorities concerned to reopen the Dhanmondi and Gulshan branches of Lakehead Grammar School.

The two branches of the institution were shut down on charges of patronising extremism and militancy.

Today the Chamber Judge of the Appellate Division Justice Syed Mahmud Hussain passed the stay order following three separate petitions filed by the government seeking stay on the High Court verdict.

The apex court chamber judge also sent the petitions to its full bench for hearing on Sunday.

The High Court yesterday ordered the authorities concerned to reopen Lakehead Grammar School within 24 hours declaring the government's decision to shut down the school's Dhanmondi and Gulshan branches in Dhaka illegal.

On November 7, the Dhaka district administration sealed off Dhanmondi and Gulshan branches of Lakehead Grammar School and shut down all activities of the school, based on allegations that it was patronising militancy, promoting extremist views and providing support in the formation of militant outfits.