Gujarat: A year later, fuming RTE parents claim school charging excess money

Few parents of children studying under RTE Act have approached the District Education Officer (DEO) expressing their concerns over behaviour of the school.

A mother of Bansri Rajnikumar, Sapnaben in her letter to DEO stated that after a year of studying under RTE, a school in Narol is demanding fees under various names. She said, "The school this year has sought money for books and other things and told us that they are charging because they have received less funds from the government to sponsor an RTE child. When we inquired about the Act, as realised that we are not supposed to pay any fees. We want DEO to investigate the matter."

Another parent requesting anonymity said, "We have got admission this year for our son. But when we went to the school, in Vejalpur, they said that the child should know English as it is an English medium school. We have tried to meet the DEO but he was not available. The last date to submit and confirm admission is till 26th." When DNA attempted to contact Navneet Mehta, DEO, Ahmedabad city, he was not available for a comment.

This year, the state government has been quite vigilant in terms of checking the documentation of parents to avoid fake admissions. Time and again, state education minister has voiced his opinion how his officials will ensure no fake admission is being given.

MINISTER SPEAK

State education minister Bhupendrasinh Chudasama said, “No school can charge fees from RTE parents under any circumstances. Once we receive complaints, action will be taken against the school.”