The Department of School Education in Puducherry has ordered the closure of 33 private schools operating illegally in the Union Territory. These schools lacked proper approval from the Directorate of School Education.
This crackdown is part of a two-phase effort to ensure educational institutions comply with regulations. In December 2023, the department closed 33 similar schools in the first phase.
Concerns and Violations
The closure notices target playschools, nurseries, and Montessori institutions. Officials highlighted the National Education Policy (NEP), which mandates all preschools fall under the Education Department's purview.
A department spokesperson expressed concern about a rise in unapproved preschools operating in makeshift buildings and disregarding safety guidelines outlined by the NEP. They vowed to continue inspections to identify such institutions.
Legal Repercussions
Operating a school without proper recognition violates the Puducherry School Education Act, 1987, and the Pondicherry School Education Rules, 1996. Additionally, the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act, 2009 imposes fines on unrecognized schools.
The department emphasized that parents enrolling their children in such schools could face consequences alongside the school management.
Recommendations
The department urged parents to verify a school's accreditation with the Directorate of School Education before enrolling their children. This ensures adherence to safety standards and legal regulations.