Delhi Government Introduces Bill to Regulate Private School Fees

Delhi's Historic Bill on School Fee Regulation

On Monday, the Delhi government presented a much-anticipated draft bill in the assembly, claiming it to be a historic move to regulate fees in private schools. Education Minister Ashish Sood emphasized that education should not be treated as a commodity. This legislation aims to curb the commercialization of education and target those who exploit it for profit.

Key Objectives of the New Bill

The proposed legislation seeks to ensure uniform fee regulation across all private unaided schools, including minority institutions, as well as those not allocated government land. Previously, fee regulation was only applicable to private schools operating on land allotted by the Delhi Development Authority. Additionally, the bill prohibits schools from harassing students over outstanding or delayed fees, which includes actions like expelling students, withholding results, denying class access, or public humiliation.

Opposition's Criticism of the Bill

Opposition leader and former Chief Minister Atishi criticized the bill, labeling it a deception aimed at protecting private school owners. She argued that it serves to legitimize their unchecked fee hikes. Initially scheduled for introduction in April, the bill's delay until August raised concerns, as private schools have reportedly intimidated parents regarding fees. Atishi accused the BJP of colluding with private school owners to impose increased fees legally. She vowed to take the matter to the streets, the courts, and even raise it in Parliament, highlighting the distress of parents over rising fees and their perception of BJP's alliance with private school owners.