Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Wednesday announced that fee hikes by private schools in the state will be capped at 5% per annum. Addressing the media in Chandigarh, Mann stated that a law to this effect will be introduced in the next assembly session.
Fee Hike Cap and Refund Policy
The chief minister clarified that the 5% cap applies to all types of fees, not just tuition fees. He emphasized that private schools will not be allowed to increase their fees by more than 5% in a single year. Additionally, schools that have raised fees by over 15% in the past three years must refund the component charged above the 15% increase.
Strict Law and Penalties
Mann informed reporters that a strict law will be brought in this regard, asserting that it will be the toughest such law in the country. Under the proposed law, fines will be imposed on schools that violate the fee hike cap. Continued violations could lead to cancellation of the school's affiliation.
Background and Complaints
The chief minister said he received many calls from parents and students complaining that schools harassed them by threatening to withhold roll numbers or certificates until dues were paid. The decision aims to address these grievances and ensure affordable education for all.
"The Punjab government has decided that fee hike by private schools will be capped at 5% per annum. They can raise fees only by 5% in a year," Mann said. He reiterated that the law will be comprehensive and strictly enforced to protect the interests of students and parents.
