Allegations of Harassment, Unapproved Fee Collection and Use of Bouncers Spark Outrage
New Delhi, May 15 — In a significant development concerning one of the capital’s reputed schools, over 100 parents have approached the Delhi High Court seeking urgent protection for their children amid ongoing fee hike disputes at Delhi Public School (DPS) Dwarka. The petitioners have also demanded that the Delhi government and the Lieutenant Governor (LG) take over the institution's management to ensure student welfare.Parents Allege Coercion and "Inhumane" Practices
The petition, filed by 102 parents, alleges that DPS Dwarka has employed coercive tactics to collect fees that were never officially approved in recent years. The plea details that parents, who refused to pay unapproved hikes, faced pressure and threats, including the deployment of bouncers on school premises — a move described by the parents as "unhealthy, dirty and inhumane."According to the counsel representing the parents, the school initially increased fees by ₹7,000 per month and then further hiked it to ₹9,000, placing an unreasonable financial burden on families.
Court Suggests Interim Relief, Parents Say It's Unviable
During the hearing, Justice Vikas Mahajan advised parents to consider depositing 50 percent of the hiked amount as an interim measure until a final decision is made. However, the parents declined, stating that such a financial commitment was not feasible.DOE Orders Ignored, Say Petitioners
The petition cites multiple directives from the Delhi government's Department of Education (DoE), including a May 22, 2024 order instructing DPS Dwarka to refund the excess and unapproved fees collected for the 2022-23 academic year. Another order dated May 28, 2024, directed the school to ensure that students are not subjected to academic or emotional distress and must be allowed to continue classes and appear for examinations.Despite these orders, the plea contends that violations persist, prompting the demand for a government takeover under Article 239AA of the Constitution of India, which designates the LG as the administrator of Delhi.
Students Confined, Denied Basic Rights: Inspection Report
The petition also references an earlier case being heard by a coordinate bench of the High Court, in which the school was reprimanded for treating students with "indignity" over unpaid fees. An inspection report by an eight-member committee led by the District Magistrate (Southwest) found that students were barred from regular classes, confined to the library, denied access to the canteen, restricted from speaking with friends, and closely watched by guards during washroom visits.Next Hearing Scheduled for Friday
The Delhi High Court has listed the matter for further hearing on Friday. The case has sparked widespread attention due to its implications on student rights, school governance, and regulatory enforcement.Parents and activists continue to demand accountability and immediate intervention to safeguard the educational and emotional well-being of the affected children.
