The Supreme Court on Monday asked a petitioner to approach the central government with a representation regarding a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking regulation of all institutions that provide education to children below the age of 14 years.
Bench's Direction
A bench of Justices directed the petitioner, Advocate Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay, to first make a representation before the Union of India. The court stated that it would consider the matter only after the government responds to the representation.
Petitioner's Argument
Upadhyay had filed the PIL arguing that there is no comprehensive regulatory framework for schools and other educational institutions catering to young children. He contended that this lack of oversight leads to varying standards of education and infrastructure, which adversely affects the development of children.
The petitioner emphasized that the Right to Education Act, 2009, mandates free and compulsory education for children aged 6 to 14, but many institutions operate without proper regulation, compromising the quality of education.
Next Steps
The Supreme Court has not issued any notice to the Centre yet. Instead, it has given the petitioner the opportunity to submit a detailed representation to the Ministry of Education. The court will review the matter after the government's response is filed.
This case highlights the ongoing concerns about the quality and regulation of early childhood education in India. The outcome could lead to stricter norms for schools and other institutions.
