In a strong indictment of Delhi Public School, Dwarka, the Delhi High Court criticized the school for confining students in a library over fee-related issues, stating that such treatment was “inhumane” and that the school deserved to be shut down. The remarks were made during a hearing where distressed students, accompanied by their parents, were present in court in their school uniforms, carrying bags and books. The court condemned the institution’s conduct as degrading and emphasized that financial disputes cannot justify the mistreatment of children.
HC questions discriminatory practices and seeks accountability
Justice Sachin Datta expressed outrage over the treatment of students, describing the actions of the school as treating them like “chattel.” The judge emphasized that even if fees are unpaid, schools are not permitted to isolate or humiliate students. The court reviewed an inspection report led by the district magistrate, highlighting multiple discriminatory practices. Students allegedly were denied access to classes, confined to the library, barred from the canteen, and monitored even during washroom breaks.
The report also cited serious violations, including the restriction of communication among students and the public display of defaulters’ names. The High Court ordered that no child should be confined, segregated, or denied access to any school facilities. The Directorate of Education (DoE) has been directed to ensure compliance through regular inspections and initiate action if violations continue.
Government and court interventions intensify
The legal action stems from a July 2024 notice by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), which directed police to file an FIR against the school under the Juvenile Justice Act. The High Court, while initially staying the NCPCR notice, questioned the school’s conduct and called for potential criminal prosecution of the principal.
Parents alleged that the school was demanding an “unauthorized” fee hike and penalizing children unfairly. The school’s counsel claimed that notices were issued in December 2023, and when dues weren’t cleared by March, the students were removed from rolls from April 1. However, the students’ lawyer argued they had paid the approved fees and were still mistreated.
The DoE reported visiting the school on April 15, confirming students were found confined in the library and that the school refused to sign inspection records. The government is now considering derecognizing the school for its conduct. The court reiterated that any further mistreatment would invite strict legal action and posted the next hearing for May 5.
