The District Education Officer (DEO) of Ahmedabad city has issued a directive to all self-financed primary schools, prohibiting them from collecting any form of indirect fees from students admitted under the Right to Education (RTE) Act. A circular has been released, emphasizing strict adherence to RTE regulations.
Complaints Prompt Action
According to sources, the DEO's office received multiple complaints alleging that some schools were charging additional fees from parents of RTE students under various pretexts. These included activity fees, smart class charges, annual function expenses, educational tour fees, and even canteen and meal charges. Under the RTE Act, students admitted through this scheme are entitled to free and compulsory education, and schools are prohibited from imposing any financial burden on them.
DEO's Warning
In the circular, DEO Rohit Chaudhary stated that no school should demand or collect such fees. He also warned schools against taking punitive measures against students, such as restricting attendance, withholding exam results, or subjecting them to humiliation for non-payment. Schools have been instructed to inform all teaching and administrative staff about these guidelines and ensure full compliance.
Legal Consequences
The DEO has further warned that strict legal action will be taken against institutions found violating these rules or if complaints are received. In a related directive, schools have also been ordered not to force students or parents to purchase uniforms, textbooks, or stationery from specific shops or vendors. Additionally, they have been cautioned against compelling students to buy books from private publishers.
Parental Response
Parents have welcomed the move, stating that such practices had placed an unfair financial burden on economically weaker families. The directive aims to protect the rights of RTE students and ensure that they receive free education without any hidden costs.
