The ongoing discussions reflect the Jharkhand government’s commitment to reforming the state’s educational landscape and ensuring that private schools operate within the bounds of fairness and transparency.
The Jharkhand government informed the state assembly that it would take strict action against private schools that charge fees under the guise of readmission. Education Minister Ramdas Soren addressed the issue while responding to concerns raised by BJP MLAs regarding the imposition of readmission fees by private schools. Soren assured that complaints filed with the district-level committees will be thoroughly investigated, and appropriate actions will be taken against any institution found in violation.
District-Level Committees to Oversee Education Sector
Minister Ramdas Soren emphasized that the government would strengthen the monitoring process by ensuring regular meetings of district-level committees dedicated to overseeing education. These committees are tasked with addressing any allegations of irregularities in private schools, including issues related to fee structures. "If any complaint is lodged with the district-level committee regarding private schools charging fees in the name of readmission, the government will certainly take action," Soren stated.
BJP MLAs Raise Concerns Over School Fee Structures
BJP legislator Pradip Prasad raised concerns about the growing irregularities in private schools, particularly regarding their fee structures and the exploitation of parents. Prasad called for the establishment of a uniform fee structure across all private schools in Jharkhand, to prevent schools from imposing arbitrary and excessive fees. In response, Minister Soren explained that each private school in the state has a management committee that includes parents, teachers, and the school principal. He clarified that the fees are decided by the management committee, and any discrepancies or irregularities are to be reviewed by the district-level committees.
Authority of District Committees
Soren also highlighted the authority of district-level committees to take action against private schools found violating the regulations. The committees, chaired by the respective Deputy Commissioners, have the power to impose fines ranging from Rs 50,000 to Rs 2.5 lakh on offending schools. Furthermore, schools that fail to adhere to prescribed norms may face the revocation of their accreditation. The government aims to ensure that private institutions follow guidelines that protect the interests of students and their families.
Leader of Opposition Calls for Regular Meetings of Committees
Leader of the Opposition, Babulal Marandi, criticized the infrequent meetings of education tribunals and district-level committees. Marandi argued that these meetings are rarely held, hindering effective oversight of the education sector. "The government should ensure that these meetings are conducted every month, particularly before the admission season. Additionally, the agenda for the meetings should be provided to all committee members, including people's representatives, well in advance," Marandi said.
Government Agrees to Ensure Regular Meetings
In response to Marandi's concerns, Education Minister Ramdas Soren assured the assembly that district-level committee meetings will be held regularly, and all committee members will receive the meeting agenda a week in advance. “I assure you that the meetings of district-level committees will be held regularly, and members will be provided with the agenda a week before the meeting,” Soren stated, acknowledging the need for transparent and timely discussions on education-related matters.
Call for a Law to Regulate Private School Irregularities
Pradip Prasad further demanded that the state government consider introducing a law to specifically address the irregularities in private schools, which was supported by Speaker Rabindra Nath Mahato. Soren responded by stating that if the district committees recommend such a law, the government would certainly consider its introduction. This suggestion aims to provide a more comprehensive legal framework to curb malpractices in private educational institutions.
Commitment to Educational Reform and Accountability
The ongoing discussions reflect the Jharkhand government’s commitment to reforming the state’s educational landscape and ensuring that private schools operate within the bounds of fairness and transparency. With measures to monitor fee structures, enforce compliance with guidelines, and promote regular oversight, the government aims to address the concerns of parents and maintain quality education across the state.
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