Gadwal: Today, leading student groups like BRSV, USFI, and PDSU protested at the District Education Office in Gadwal. They demanded action against private schools accused of breaking government rules. The protest ended with a memorandum submitted to Mrs. Vijayalakshmi, the Regional Joint Director (RJD) of School Education.
Accusations Against Private Schools:
Student leaders claim private schools are involved in several wrongful practices:
Unauthorized Book Sales: Private schools are allegedly setting up illegal book stalls and forcing students to buy textbooks from specific sellers.
Fee Overcharging: Schools are accused of ignoring government fee limits, charging between ₹36,000 and ₹50,000 even for UKG admissions.
Ignoring Fee Concessions: The required 25% fee discount for students from low-income and middle-class families is reportedly not being honored.
Operating Without Recognition: Some schools allegedly function without official approval, still enrolling students and charging high fees.
Lack of Basic Amenities: Despite collecting large sums, many private and corporate schools reportedly fail to provide essential facilities.
Manipulated Sales: Schools are forcing parents to purchase expensive books and uniforms from certain outlets.
Demands of Student Unions:
1. Immediate suspension of negligent education officers, including the District Educational Officer (DEO) and Mandal Education Officers (MEOs).
2. Criminal charges against schools violating regulations.
3. Withdrawal of recognition for unauthorized schools.
4. Fee control and thorough audits of schools in Gadwal.
5. Better infrastructure in government schools to reduce private school dominance.
Student leaders warned of district-wide protests if their demands aren’t addressed quickly.
Statements from Student Leaders:
Speaking to the media, student leaders stressed the need for regulation. Akepogu Raju, District VP of PDSU, called private schools “fee mafias,” exploiting parents and harming children’s futures. Waman Palli Rangaswamy, State Secretary of USFI, criticized district officials for inaction. Mr. Maj, BRSV Gadwal President, urged the RJD to investigate and suspend negligent education officers.
Response from Authorities:
RJD Vijayalakshmi promised the student unions that an inquiry would begin immediately. She said criminal action would follow against rule-breaking schools.
This protest has heightened the debate on the accountability of private schools and the responsibilities of regulatory bodies. All eyes are now on how quickly the state education department and local authorities will address these serious allegations. More updates will follow.
