The government has not fully enforced the School Fees Regulatory Act Pvt, School Lifting Fees without proper disclosure over the years

Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): The government on Thursday issued orders to address the persistent monopoly of private schools in the state by mandating compliance with the Madhya Pradesh Private School Fees Regulatory Act. However, the government order does not ensure full implementation of the law, which was passed many years ago.

As per the Madhya Pradesh Private School Fees Act, 2017 and Rules, 2020, schools have to submit information about upcoming fees and verified financial details for the last three years 90 days before the start of the new session. Additionally, the RTE Act requires recognized schools to submit details of annual income, expenditure and fees to the District Education Officer (DEO). Despite these requirements, many schools failed to comply and increased fees without permission.

The law and regulations establish a fixed ratio of income to expenditure, prohibiting increases in fees in the event of high profits. Many schools charge unauthorized fees beyond certain categories.

The government order obliges all private schools to post detailed information on fees and other relevant issues on the portal by June 8. This comes after a long period in which schools have failed to provide the necessary details of fees and income and expenses and yet they continue to increase fees in violation of regulations.

The government order undermines parents’ rights

Prabodh Pandya, general secretary of the Palak Sangh state, condemned the government order, stating that depositing the fine does not absolve the school management; this proves their guilt. He told the Free Press that the ordinance does not give the right to a fee increase. “The government order undermines parents’ rights and appears to be an attempt to protect private schools. As the schools have not met any conditions, they are not entitled to a fee increase from the 2018-19 session to the 2024-25 session. The fees charged in 2018 should be introduced today, he added.

Posted: Sat Jun 01, 2024 06:21 EST