Allahabad HC Demands 5-Year RTE Admission Data

The Allahabad High Court has directed the Uttar Pradesh government to provide a five-year, school-wise data on students admitted under the Right to Education (RTE) Act.

This data includes details of children whose admissions were denied or not acted upon by schools.

The court also sought details of complaints alleging collection of capitation fees or adoption of screening procedures in violation of the state's education policy.

Additionally, the court wants to know the action taken on such complaints.

Justice Vinod Diwakar passed the order while hearing a writ petition filed by St John's School, Babhanauti, Pachwal.

The court observed that certain private educational institutions recognised by the state were reluctant to admit children and forgo fees and other charges.

The bench directed the state government counsel to file an affidavit by September 15, the next date of hearing.

The court also directed schools affiliated to the CBSE, CISCE and other boards to cooperate with the Basic Shiksha Adhikari and District Inspector of Schools concerned in furnishing the required information.

The court clarified that the data was being sought only to obtain a complete picture and that no opinion had been expressed on the conduct of any school.

The high court had previously clarified that private schools in Uttar Pradesh affiliated with CBSE or ICSE are not exempt from the RTE Act, 2009.

This act guarantees free and compulsory education to children aged six to 14 years under Article 21A of the Constitution.

The court's decision is significant as it aims to ensure that all eligible children receive free and compulsory education as per the RTE Act.

The data sought by the court will help to identify schools that are not complying with the RTE Act and take necessary action against them.

This will ultimately benefit the children who are entitled to free and compulsory education under the act.

In conclusion, the Allahabad High Court's decision to seek data on RTE admissions and denied admissions is a step towards ensuring that all eligible children receive free and compulsory education.

This decision is in line with the government's efforts to promote education and reduce inequality in the education sector.

The court's order is a reminder that private schools must comply with the RTE Act and provide free and compulsory education to eligible children.

The data sought by the court will help to monitor the implementation of the RTE Act and take necessary action against non-compliant schools.