Call for Financial Transparency in Delhi's Private Schools Intensifies

A PIL seeks regular audits of private schools in Delhi to prevent financial mismanagement. Allegations include unchecked fee hikes and lack of accountability. The Delhi government has six weeks to respond, while concerns grow over commercialisation of education amid stalled legislative protections.

The Delhi High Court has called on the city's government to state its position on a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking regular audits of the financial accounts of private unaided schools. The petition argues that the absence of such audits contradicts the mandates under the Delhi School Education Act, fostering an environment conducive to financial opacity.

The plea, brought forth by NGO Justice for All, highlights a concerning rise in the commercialisation of education, with private schools purportedly engaging in profiteering through significant fee increases, some as high as 200% over the past two years. The failure to audit these accounts is seen as a critical lapse that undermines fiscal accountability and transparency.

The discussions have gained urgency following the Delhi government's decision to delay the implementation of the Delhi Fee Regulation Act, 2025, which was intended to protect against exploitative fee structures. The case is scheduled for a hearing on April 22, where further deliberations will be undertaken on these pressing issues.

(With inputs from agencies.)