Srinagar, Feb 23: The Director of School Education Kashmir (DSEK) has banned the private schools from charging the capitation fee and other non-notified fees at the time of admission into schools.
In an official circular, the Director of School Education Kashmir said that some recognised private schools charge a capitation fee at the time of admission and subject the students and their parents or guardians to screening tests.
“The various complaints from parents and civil society are pouring in regarding the demand for admission fees by private schools, which is totally against the law of the land and a punishable offense,” the circular reads.
It stated that due to a change in the academic session in J&K UT in conformity with the academic calendar of the entire nation as per NEP-2020, the admission time in schools should begin in the month of March, and many schools are flouting this norm as well.
“It is impressed upon all the private recognised schools in Kashmir Division to desist from charging the capitation fee, admission fee, and other non-notified fees and avoid conducting screening procedures or interviews of children for admission.” Circular reads
DSEK warned that any school found deviating from these guidelines will face action under the rules, including the possibility of registration cancellation.
“All Chief Education Officers are designated as nodal officers in their respective areas to ensure the strict implementation of these circular instructions. Additionally, all joint directors, cluster heads, and zonal education officers are tasked with monitoring the enforcement of these circular instructions in their respective areas,” the order concluded.
