Pledges zero tolerance against injustice in education sector
New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has taken firm action in response to mounting complaints of arbitrary fee hikes and alleged mistreatment of students by private schools in the capital. Addressing the issue during a public interaction on Tuesday, Gupta declared that any institution found violating regulations or harassing students and parents would face strict consequences.
“Let me be absolutely clear—no school has the right to intimidate families or children over fees,” Gupta said in a video statement. “There are rules in place, and every school is expected to follow them. We will not tolerate misconduct.”
Her statement comes on the heels of serious allegations raised by parents against Queen Mary School in Model Town. During the interaction, parents claimed the school had collected fees unjustly and even expelled students, prompting the CM to order an immediate investigation and issue warnings to schools named in such complaints.
Reinforcing the government’s commitment, Gupta said, “The Delhi government stands for transparency, equality, and the protection of every child’s right to education. We have adopted a zero-tolerance approach towards any form of injustice or exploitation in schools.”
Allegations of Harassment at DPS Dwarka
The spotlight has also turned to DPS Dwarka, where a group of parents has come forward with disturbing claims of mental harassment and discrimination against students whose parents resisted a sudden and steep fee hike. They allege that children were removed from classrooms, isolated in the school library, and closely monitored—even while using basic amenities like the washroom or getting water.
“They were treated like criminals,” said one parent tearfully. “My child has been traumatised by the experience and fears going to school.”
Despite repeated attempts, the school administration reportedly failed to respond to the parents’ concerns. Over the weekend, a collective calling itself “DPS Dwarka Aggrieved Parents” held a press conference, detailing what they described as “systemic mental harassment” and demanding urgent corrective action.
Their demands include:
- Immediate release of the investigation report conducted by the district magistrate’s team.
- Public accountability of any officials found negligent or complicit.
- Transparency from the DPS Society regarding children’s constitutional rights to education.
- Swift and visible government action in response to the complaints.
The school has yet to comment on the allegations. As the investigation proceeds, parents and activists are calling for broader reforms to ensure accountability and safeguard students from arbitrary practices across the education system.
