Cite corruption and disparities as a reason

-Reshma Ravishanker

Questioning the disparity in rules for government and private schools and alleging that large-scale corruption is brewing over it, private schools in Karnataka have refused to apply for renewal of recognition.

Two associations of private schools with a large number of schools under their umbrellas have communicated displeasure over the framework and procedure for renewal of recognition.

The Registered Unaided Private Schools Managements Association (RUPSA), on Friday, met with its members and have asked schools not to apply for the renewal process, the applications for which were invited by the state government earlier.

“Every time private schools approach the authorities concerned for No-objection certificates and renewals, they encounter challenges. With an intention of seeking bribe from the schools, authorities concerned intentionally find minor inaccuracies and have the process delayed. This has been brought to the notice of top authorities in the department as well. Despite that, there has been no action. Hence, this year, we have advised member schools not to submit applications,” said Lokeshwarappa S, president, RUPSA.

RUPSA members have said that they would also petition the high court in this regard. 

Meanwhile, The Associated Managements of Private Schools in Karnataka (KAMS) has also raised concerns expressing that the government treats private and government schools differently.

“We have asked this question time and again. Why do only private schools need to adhere to these norms of having building safety norms, fire and emergency facilities and ensure that all protocols are followed while seeking renewal while government schools are going scot-free?  Why don’t the same rules apply even for government schools,” D Shashi Kumar, general secretary, KAMS questioned.

PWD certificate for fire safety since2-3 years, there is a large scale corruption happening there

“Even in 2018, there was an impleading before the supreme court by private schools in this matter. MHRD was asked to resolve this issue. But in the name of the 2009 judgment, the education department and other allied departments have been imposing that the previously constructed schools must also follow the new guidelines as specified for the new schools. While such stringent rules apply for private schools, government schools are given directives to install fire extinguishers and ensure they are replaced after the expiry date. Why this inequality?” he questioned. 

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