Kanpur Administration Takes Hard Line Against School Fee Violations
In Kanpur, the district administration has adopted a firm and uncompromising stance against self-financed schools amid growing concerns over the escalating financial burden on parents. The administration has issued clear warnings that institutions found violating the provisions of the Uttar Pradesh Self-Financed Independent (Fee Determination) Ordinance-2018 will face severe consequences.
Strict Action Promised for Violations
District Magistrate Jitendra Pratap Singh, while chairing a review meeting of the Fee Regulatory Committee, emphasized that financial exploitation of parents would not be tolerated under any circumstances. He stressed that all fee-related provisions must be strictly adhered to, and the fee determination process must maintain complete transparency. "No school will be allowed to charge even a single rupee more than the prescribed fee," he declared firmly.
The administration has made it clear that strict action will be taken against schools that fail to comply. Apart from being required to refund any excess fees collected from parents, offending institutions may face substantial penalties. In cases of repeated violations, schools could even see their recognition cancelled, a move that would significantly impact their operations.
Comprehensive Guidelines Issued
The district magistrate issued several important directives during the meeting:
- All schools must submit detailed proposals of fees for the upcoming academic session to the competent authority before the session begins
- Forcing students or parents to purchase books, shoes, socks, or uniforms from specific shops will be treated as a serious violation
- Once a school uniform design is finalized, it cannot be changed for at least five years
- Admission fees can only be charged at the time of first admission
- Examination fees must be charged strictly for examinations only
- Issuing receipts for every fee collected is now mandatory
- No amount beyond the prescribed fee should be charged by any school
Graduated Penalty Structure
The administration has established a clear penalty structure for violations:
- First violation: Schools must refund excess amounts collected and may face fines up to Rs 1 lakh
- Second violation: Penalties could escalate to Rs 5 lakh
- Third violation: Recommendation will be made to the concerned board for cancellation of the school's recognition or affiliation
District Magistrate Singh warned that any complaints regarding forced purchases from particular shops should be acted upon immediately, demonstrating the administration's commitment to protecting parental rights.
Broad Participation in Review Meeting
The significant review meeting saw participation from various stakeholders, including:
- Principals of multiple schools across Kanpur
- CBSE coordinator Balvinder Singh
- ICSE Board coordinator Sharmila Nandi
- Manoj Kumar representing the Parents' Association
- DIOS officials
- Chief Development Officer Deeksha Jain
- Other relevant administrative officials
This broad participation underscores the seriousness with which the administration is approaching the issue of school fee regulation and parental financial protection.
The administration's tough stance comes in response to increasing complaints from parents about the rising costs of education, including not just school fees but also expenses for books, notebooks, shoes, socks, and uniforms. By enforcing the 2018 ordinance strictly, Kanpur authorities aim to create a more transparent and fair educational environment that respects the financial constraints faced by families while maintaining educational standards.
