Today, On 12th July, The Delhi High Court dismissed a plea seeking to revise the guidelines for coaching centers. The petition aimed to push for changes in the regulations governing these educational institutions. However, the court decided not to intervene in the existing guidelines.
New Delhi: The Delhi High Court, On Monday, declined to consider a petition requesting the re-framing of guidelines for coaching institutes, including provisions for criminal liability.
The petition also urged the authorities to establish an education system focused on the holistic development of students’ minds, rather than solely preparing them for entrance exams.
A bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela stated that issuing such directions beyond the court’s jurisdiction.
The bench stated,
“We can’t address your request. Reforming the education system is beyond our jurisdiction. Even if changes are needed, it’s up to the elected government to handle, and they will be held accountable by the voters during elections,”
They further remarked,
“We cannot design the education system for the city,”
The court was addressing a plea submitted by the non-profit organization Kutumb, which sought a directive for the authorities to establish rules and regulations governing the operation of paying guest accommodations for students in Delhi.
However, as the court expressed reluctance to entertain the plea, the petitioner’s counsel, Rudra Vikram Singh, requested permission to withdraw the petition. The court granted this request, allowing the petitioner to withdraw the petition while providing the liberty to approach a more appropriate forum for their concerns.
During the proceedings, the counsel representing the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), Manu Chaturvedi, informed the court that the Supreme Court is currently handling a related matter concerning the safety of students in coaching centers.
The petition also called for the establishment of a committee to investigate and compile a report on coaching institutes operating illegally and failing to comply with standard regulations.
Read Also: Delhi High Court Orders MCD, DDA to Close Coaching Centers Violating Safety Regulations
A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been submitted to the Delhi High Court, seeking the revision of guidelines governing coaching institutes, particularly emphasizing the need for criminal liability. The PIL advocates for the implementation of stricter regulations and accountability measures to tackle issues like fraud, exploitation, and safety within these institutions.
The petition urges the court to direct the Central and Delhi Governments to establish clear rules and regulations for the operation of paying guest accommodations for students, both in Delhi and across the country, to ensure these facilities are safe, well-regulated, and appropriate for student residents.
Additionally, the plea promotes the development of an education system that prioritizes the comprehensive development and intellectual growth of students, rather than focusing solely on preparing them for entrance exams. The goal is to reorient the educational framework towards broader learning objectives and personal development.