As many as 1,332 seats under the Right to Education (RTE) quota remain vacant in Coimbatore district, with the mandatory 1km distance norm cited as a key reason for rejection of eligible applicants. Of the 3,423 seats available in 330 private schools, only 2,091 students had enrolled thus far, sources said. May 18 was the last date for applying.
Challenge to Distance Criterion
Marumalarchi Makkal Iyakkam president V Eswaran, who has filed a petition challenging the distance criterion, said more than 50% of eligible students were unable to apply solely due to the norm, leaving economically weaker parents unable to seek admission in preferred schools despite vacancies. The matter is scheduled to be heard in the Madras high court on Friday.
Demand for Wider Distance Limit
Eswaran sought a wider distance limit on the lines of Kendriya Vidyalayas and flagged the absence of CBSE schools on the RTE list, besides low awareness among parents. He emphasized that the current norm disproportionately affects underprivileged families who rely on nearby schools for their children's education.
Parents have expressed frustration over the limited options, as many eligible students are forced to travel longer distances or opt for schools with fewer resources. The petitioner urged the court to consider a more flexible approach to ensure better utilization of vacant seats.
