In a significant development, the Maharashtra State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (MSCPCR) emphasized the imperative need for policy reforms concerning private educational institutions' acquisition of concessions through minority status. Addressing concerns of potential misuse and injustices faced by minority communities, advocate Susieben Shah, the commission's chairperson, called for comprehensive reforms at the governmental level to ensure equity and fairness in the education sector.
Shah articulated her stance during a joint meeting with the education department to deliberate on the implementation of the Right to Education (RTE) Act. Emphasizing the importance of preventing the exploitation of policies aimed at supporting minority educational institutions, Shah urged the state government to establish a minimum percentage requirement for minority student enrollment. By aligning with regulations outlined by the Central government, Shah advocated for a standardized approach to licensing procedures for institutions with minority status.
Quoting Shah, an official release highlighted the necessity for regular inspections of schools granted minority status to uphold accountability and adherence to prescribed regulations. The MSCPCR underscored the urgency of addressing grievances stemming from instances where schools in Mumbai city and suburbs allegedly denied admission to children citing minority status.
Education officer Suraj Mandhare elucidated the procedural framework delineated by the Central government, which empowers state authorities to ascertain the percentage of respective communities in minority educational institutions. Mandhare affirmed the state government's commitment to conducting comprehensive inspections of all minority schools statewide to facilitate the equitable determination of community quotas.
This call for policy reforms reflects a concerted effort by the MSCPCR and the education department to safeguard the rights and interests of minority students and communities within the educational landscape of Maharashtra. By advocating for transparent and inclusive policies, the commission aims to foster a conducive environment for equitable access to quality education, thereby promoting social justice and empowerment across the state.
