New Delhi schools’ rich-poor divide becomes pronounced

The divide between children from economically well-off and poor families is increasing in Delhi schools with at least 50 schools having denied admission to underprivileged children. Even after the Delhi high court sent notices directing schools to follow guidelines, many, have failed to do so.

Senior members of the DPS society said schools were asked to adopt a couple of villages in their area and provide education, school uniforms and stationery to underprivileged students, but some schools are not following this.

“Many schools fear that parents would object to their wards studying with those from underprivileged backgrounds. So, they flout rules to avoid any confrontation with the parents. We have adopted three villages in Delhi and have been running this programme for the past 10 years. The government should ensure erring schools fall in line,” said Usha Ram, who heads the committee of private schools and is the principal of Laxman Public School.

“Every year we face this problem because schools are not ready to share their space with children coming from economically backward homes.There is a strong bias against these children. If educated people won’t give a chance to these children, then how will their condition improve?” asked TK Mathew of Deepalaya, a non-government organisation that works for the betterment of children from economically backward families.