Unrecognised Schools Face Scrutiny as Education Department Tightens Regulations

School Operators Protest Closure of Non-Compliant Institutions in Gurgaon

The Gurgaon education department has ramped up its efforts to shut down unrecognised schools, raising concerns among operators of these institutions. In response, the School Welfare Association submitted a memorandum to the education minister through the district commissioner on May 3, requesting regulatory relief rather than the abrupt closure of schools. Additionally, the association approached the local MLA, urging an extension for schools to meet government compliance standards.

While school operators acknowledged the importance of regulations, such as hiring qualified teachers, maintaining hygiene, and ensuring child development, they argued that meeting land requirements remains financially challenging for many smaller institutions.

Pawan Nehra, the association's state president, cautioned that sudden closures would significantly disrupt students' education, particularly for low-income families who cannot afford private schooling. He also pointed out the shortage of seats in government schools, emphasising the need for policy revisions to prevent further educational disruptions. So far, the education department has taken action against three schools—Shri Chaitanya Techno School, Agrani Public School, and Scholars Glory School—while 84 additional unrecognised schools remain under scrutiny. District education officer Captain Indu Bokan confirmed that measures were being enforced against illegally operating institutions.

Following the crackdown, school operators staged protests, urging the government to amend existing regulations and allow more time for compliance. Special inspection teams, comprising government school principals and teachers, were deployed to review school documentation to strengthen oversight. Authorities revealed that many unrecognised schools lack proper infrastructure, qualified teachers, and compliance with the RTE Act, yet continue to charge fees. As a precaution, parents have been advised to verify school recognition status at block education offices, while officials assured that students from closed schools would be accommodated in recognised institutions.

The ongoing enforcement reinforces Gurgaon’s commitment to improving education standards, although concerns persist regarding accessibility and regulatory flexibility for smaller institutions. Balancing strict regulations with practical solutions will be key to ensuring both quality education and institutional sustainability.

Editor's Note:

The education department’s recent crackdown on unrecognised schools in Gurgaon marks a bold step toward ensuring quality education and regulatory compliance. While the intent is commendable, the sudden enforcement raises valid concerns about accessibility for low-income families and the practicality of implementing strict norms across the board. School operators argue that financial limitations make it difficult for smaller institutions to meet land and infrastructure requirements, and the shortage of seats in government schools only worsens the situation. If the objective is to raise educational standards, a more balanced approach—one that enforces regulations while allowing struggling schools a reasonable time frame for compliance—would likely be more effective. The existence of illegally operating schools lacking adequate infrastructure and qualified teachers cannot be ignored. However, abrupt closures could disrupt the education of thousands of students. Rather than shutting them down immediately, the government could offer support and clear guidelines to help these institutions meet minimum standards.

Skoobuzz believes that while the government’s move demonstrates much-needed accountability, sustainable reform should prioritise both quality and accessibility, ensuring that every child has a fair opportunity to receive a proper education.