School Accused of Discriminatory Practices Amid Ongoing Fee Hike Controversy
New Delhi, May 15 – The Directorate of Education (DoE) has ordered Delhi Public School (DPS), Dwarka, to immediately reinstate 32 students removed from the school rolls due to a dispute over fee payment. The directive came shortly after over 100 concerned parents approached the Delhi High Court, seeking intervention.In its order, the DoE cited a violation of court guidelines, which prohibit schools from increasing fees without prior department approval. It also stressed that no student should face discrimination or punitive action over fee-related issues.
DoE Finds Multiple Irregularities in School’s Actions
A recent inspection conducted by the DoE on May 13 revealed serious concerns. The committee found that students were removed without proper justification, and some were even sent home on school buses without parental consent—a highly inappropriate act.The department clarified that holding back admit cards or transfer certificates due to unpaid or increased fees is unacceptable. The school has now been instructed to rescind its earlier communication regarding the students' removal and to file a compliance report within three days.
Parents Seek Government Intervention
The issue escalated earlier in the day when over 100 parents filed a plea in the Delhi High Court. They demanded protection for their children and urged the Delhi government and the Lieutenant Governor to take over the school’s administration.The parents alleged that DPS Dwarka has been using pressure tactics to collect unapproved fees over the years. According to the plea, the school initially hiked the monthly fee by ₹7,000 and later increased it to ₹9,000.
Court Emphasizes Student Rights
This development follows a High Court order dated April 16, which addressed discriminatory practices reported in an inspection by an eight-member committee led by the District Magistrate (Southwest). The court had directed the school to stop isolating students in the library and ensure they could attend classes, interact with their peers, and access school facilities without hindrance.The High Court also reiterated that students removed due to fee disputes must be readmitted and should not face any coercion or discrimination.
While the school has yet to issue a statement on the matter, the DoE directive signals a firm stance against fee-related discrimination in educational institutions.