Delhi-NCR air pollution has raised concerns for school children’s safety. The Supreme Court has directed the Union government to propose a pan-India scheme, ensuring EWS and disadvantaged children receive equal facilities and free education under Article 21A.
The Supreme Court on Friday heard a plea seeking better facilities for economically weaker section (EWS) children in schools during the ongoing Delhi-NCR air pollution crisis.
The bench highlighted the need to ensure equal educational opportunities for all children, regardless of their background.
Chief Justice of India (CJI) remarked,
“In the presence of the secretary, the Directorate of State Education is exempted.”
During the hearing, an intervening counsel said,
“We seek facilities for EWS children in private and public schools.”
Another counsel added,
“The plea mainly targets private schools, as government schools don’t provide gadgets or similar benefits.”
The CJI questioned the unequal treatment, asking,
“Why aren’t children from poor or marginalized backgrounds provided equal facilities? Whatever is required under Article 21A must be ensured for all.”
Additional Solicitor General (ASG) Bhati responded that resources were limited, stating,
“Funding is limited; we cannot provide unlimited resources.”
The Court directed the Union government to propose a pan-India scheme, giving two weeks to place on record all schemes implemented so far for EWS and disadvantaged children entitled to free education under Article 21A.
This hearing comes at a time when air pollution in Delhi-NCR has severely affected children’s health and school attendance, making it crucial for schools to adopt measures that ensure safe and uninterrupted learning for all students, especially those from marginalized sections.
Case Title: GOVERNMENT OF NCT OF DELHI V JUSTICE FOR ALL AND ORS., SLP(C) No. 13267/2020
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