The Delhi government has warned private schools against demanding money for providing books and uniforms to students admitted under the economically weaker section (EWS) category. The warning of “strict action” came after the government received several complaints in this regard from parents. “A number of complaints have been received from parents and stakeholders of EWS/DG category that many private, unaided, recognised schools are refusing to provide free books, uniforms and writing materials to the children and demanding money for providing these materials, which is causing great hardship to parents,” the Directorate of Education (DoE) said in a communication to principals.
“The refusal of the schools has been taken very seriously by the government. It is, therefore, directed to provide free books, uniforms and writing materials to EWS/DG children admitted/studying in the schools. Non-compliance with the direction shall invite action as per the provisions of extant rules,” it added. As per provisions of the Right to Education Act, 2009, students admitted under EWS and Disadvantaged Group (DG) categories are entitled to free books, uniforms and writing material. The government had last month increased the amount of reimbursement to private schools for each admission under the two categories following complaints from the school heads about the amount being too less. The amount has been raised to Rs 1,598 from Rs 1,290. During ongoing admissions to entry-level classes, the government has allotted over 26,600 seats through computerised draws under the EWS category, an experiment introduced by the Delhi government for the first time.
