Despite the Karnataka government order stating that the schools cannot compel parents to pay fees during this pandemic situation, the schools do not seem to be adhering to it. Several parents have raised complaints with the Primary and Secondary Education Minister that the schools are demanding payment for the e-books since the classes are now being held online.

They have also complained that the schools are demanding annual charges and some are also demanding fees for coaching classes that they run. According to Bangalore Mirror, a private school had sent a letter to the parents stating that all the books of volume 1 for the next academic year will be made available in e-book format for students to access and prepare for their classes from April 22. It further stated that the books will be accessible post payment.

The Karnataka Associated Management of English Medium Schools (KAMS) has submitted a complaint regarding the issue to the Education Department. D Shashikumar, general secretary, KAMS told EducationWorld that despite the government order, schools are demanding online payment in the name of online coaching and other facilities. “It is a violation as per the order. We have demanded the government to take appropriate action lawfully. The government should not just pass orders but also act on them. We as the association are following the order but if others violate the order, does it mean that the government order is applicable only for us?” he asked.

Earlier, the private school managements had objected to the order by the Karnataka Government which stated that the schools cannot collect fees from the parents until further notice. The managements had asked for few corrections stating that only students of daily wage earners be exempted to pay the fees. They had stated that the parents who are receiving salary even during the lockdown should be advised to pay the school.

Also read: Punjab edu minister tells schools to not demand fees; sent notices sent to 23 institutions

Akhila Damodaran