Gehlot Accuses Rajasthan Government of Failing to Clear Rs 900 Crore RTE Dues
In Jaipur, as online applications for Right to Education (RTE) admissions in private schools commenced on Friday for the 2026–27 academic session, former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot launched a sharp critique against the state government. He alleged a failure to clear pending reimbursements to private institutions, amounting to nearly Rs 900 crore.
Allegations of Governance Failure and Unpaid Dues
Gehlot stated that while the current Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government makes lofty claims about governance, it has neglected to pay outstanding RTE dues for students in Classes 1 to 8. "Our Congress government took a historic decision to expand RTE and provide free education from Classes 9 to 12 to secure the future of poor children. In contrast, the present BJP government has failed to clear even previous dues," he emphasized.
He further claimed that private schools have threatened to halt fresh admissions due to this non-payment, with nearly 44,000 students from the previous year still awaiting admissions. Gehlot argued that this situation directly contradicts Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma's assertions of effective governance. "A government that cannot reimburse fees of poor children should not make hollow claims. The outstanding amount must be paid immediately so that no child's education suffers," he added.
Online Application Process and Key Dates
Meanwhile, the online application process for RTE admissions began on Friday and will continue until March 4. Parents can apply and upload necessary documents through the official portals: rajpsp.nic.in and education.rajasthan.gov.in/elementary.
The admission schedule includes:
- First phase of allotment: March 13
- Second phase of allotment: March 27
- Third phase (if required): April 13, 2026
Support and Contact Information
For assistance, the education department has issued helpline numbers and email support:
- Helpline numbers: 0151-2220140 and 0141-2719073
- Email support: ddrtebknr@gmail.com and rajpsphelp@gmail.com
This development highlights ongoing tensions over education funding and governance in Rajasthan, with potential impacts on thousands of students seeking admissions under the RTE scheme.
