The Directorate of Vigilance under the Delhi government has sought a response from the education department over alleged irregularities regarding fee hikes in certain schools, raising concerns about undue financial strain on parents in selected schools on “pick and choose basis”. The education department has been directed to reply to these issues within a week.
The probe specifically targets fee increases in a select group of schools, which purportedly flout regulations on fee adjustments and admissions under the Economically Weaker Section (EWS) quota. In a letter addressed to the education department, the Vigilance Directorate highlighted discrepancies in 18 schools where fee hikes and EWS admissions were reportedly mishandled.
The letter from the Vigilance Directorate underscores the need for detailed explanations regarding observed anomalies, particularly in cases where fee hikes were approved without adherence to EWS reservation guidelines. It raises suspicions about possible expulsion of EWS students, contrary to the provisions of the Right to Education Act (2009), which prohibits the detention of students in this category.
Furthermore, the letter highlights instances where fee hike approvals deviated from regulatory frameworks. It criticizes instances where capital expenditure was met using fee collections, contrary to regulations mandating such expenditures to be covered by savings. Additionally, retrospective fee hikes, affecting numerous parents with substantial arrears, have been flagged as concerning.
The Vigilance Department questions the rationale behind retrospective fee hikes, alleging a deliberate attempt to benefit school management at the expense of parents. The education department has been instructed to furnish comprehensive data on fee hike approvals from the academic years 2019-2020 to 2023-2024, including details on quantum and retrospective application.
Moreover, the department is tasked with providing information on EWS quota implementation across various grade levels, from pre-school to classes above eighth grade, along with corresponding student percentages. This move aims to ensure transparency and adherence to regulatory standards in school fee structures and admissions processes.
(With PTI inputs)
