The Supreme Court has issued notices to the Central government and the Punjab state government regarding a public interest litigation (PIL) that accuses private schools in Punjab of failing to implement the provisions of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act for children belonging to Economically Weaker Sections (EWS).
Allegations Against Private Schools
The petition contends that numerous recognized private schools in the state have either failed or outright refused to admit EWS students for several years, despite a statutory mandate requiring such admissions. This has resulted in the denial of the fundamental right to education for these children.
Court's Action
A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice V. Mohana issued notices on the plea and directed the concerned authorities to submit their responses. During the hearing, the bench suggested that the petitioner conduct a comprehensive study to ascertain how many recognized private schools have complied with the law and how many have refused admissions to eligible EWS students.
Next Hearing
The matter is scheduled for further hearing after the responses from the Centre and the Punjab government are filed.
With inputs from ANI
