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The Telangana State Human Rights Commission (TSHRC) has taken cognizance of complaints regarding private schools collecting fees in advance for the entire academic year, including summer vacations, deeming it a violation of human rights. The Commission initiated action based on a petition filed by the Hyderabad Parents Association.
The core issue is the practice of schools demanding full-year fees upfront, even during periods when educational institutions are closed for holidays. Petitioners argue this causes financial burden on parents and restricts their right to education for their children if they are unable to pay the full amount.
The TSHRC has directed the State Education Department to investigate the matter and take appropriate action against schools found to be violating the rules. It specifically requested details on whether the schools are adhering to the guidelines issued by the government regarding fee structures and collection timelines.
The Commission highlighted that collecting fees for periods when no educational services are provided is unjustifiable and potentially exploitative. It emphasized that education is a fundamental right, and financial constraints should not become a barrier to accessing it.
Previous government orders (GOs) have addressed this issue, stipulating that schools can only collect tuition fees on a quarterly or half-yearly basis, and not for the entire year in advance. Despite these GOs, complaints of violations continue to surface.
The TSHRC’s intervention aims to ensure that private schools comply with existing regulations and refrain from imposing undue financial burdens on parents. The Commission expects a detailed report from the Education Department outlining the actions taken against erring schools and measures to prevent future violations. The case underscores the ongoing struggle between parents and private schools over fee structures and transparency in fee collection practices in Telangana.
