The Delhi High Court has mandated transformative changes to ensure equal educational opportunities for students from economically weaker sections (EWS) and disadvantaged groups (DG) in private schools. The court's directive underscores that educational inequalities are unacceptable and affirms that every student deserves equal treatment and respect.
The court’s ruling comes in response to widespread concerns about disparities in private school admissions and treatment of EWS/DG students. Among the key directives, schools are now required to appoint a dedicated nodal officer to oversee these students' admission process. Additionally, schools must provide precise schedules and instructions in both English and Hindi to facilitate better communication and accessibility.
As per TOI reports, the court has also ordered that separate school IDs for junior and senior wings be abolished. This measure is intended to ensure a seamless educational journey for students as they progress through different levels of schooling, addressing issues that previously hindered their academic continuity.
The court’s intervention highlights the fundamental goal of the Right to Education (RTE) Act – to democratise access to quality education beyond the affluent classes. The ruling emphasised that any form of discrimination against EWS/DG students damages their self-esteem and perpetuates inequality, undermining the broader objective of inclusive education.
The High Court’s directives are a significant step towards achieving a fairer educational system, mandating that all students receive equal concern and respect regardless of their financial background. By enforcing these changes, the court aims to eliminate obstacles that have previously impeded access to education and foster a more inclusive school environment.
Education advocates have welcomed the court’s bold stance, viewing it as a critical advancement in the fight against educational inequality. The judgement is expected to set a precedent for future cases and drive reforms across the education sector, reinforcing the principle that education should be a right, not a privilege.
As the new directives are implemented, the focus will be on ensuring compliance and monitoring the impact on student integration and equality. The court’s ruling is a powerful reminder of the need for constitutional courts to address and rectify barriers that hinder access to education for all students.
