Feud Between Parents & Bengaluru School Deepens After Authority Issues Transfer Certificates

The ongoing dispute regarding a fee hike at Bengaluru's Daffodils English School Association has intensified as school authorities took the step of issuing transfer certificates to students whose parents were engaged in protests. This incident has highlighted allegations from certain parents who claim that the administration raised fees without proper approval from the Karnataka Education Department.

The school administration, in response, has issued transfer certificates to seven students in grades 9 and 10. These students' parents have reportedly not paid fees for the past four years. Since February, parents have been unable to enroll their children for the 2023-24 academic year due to various issues, including the absence of government clearance for the fee structure – a requirement under the Karnataka Education Act.

While the origin of the dispute can be traced back to 2018, the recent actions by the school administration were prompted by allegations that some parents had withheld fees for four years due to the lack of official approval for the fee structure. Since February, approximately 10 students have been prevented from entering the school premises.

Parents have lodged complaints about violations of their rights and perceived retaliation for their grievances with the Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (KSCPCR). As repeated appeals for fee payment were ignored, the school decided to issue transfer certificates to the seven students, asserting that the parents' claims had been rejected by the authorities. The school stated, "The decision to grant TCs to these 7 persistent defaulters has been taken by the school with the support and strong recommendation of the School Parents Teachers Association." The school's communication further criticized the parents for displaying irresponsible behavior and failing in their responsibility toward their children's education.

The school administration has additionally accused these parents of actively denying their children's right to education and emphasized that no services are offered without cost. Concerns raised by parents include issues such as unqualified teachers, nepotism in hiring, capitation fees, and a lack of transparency in the fee structure. However, according to the school's account, 18 out of the 25 protesting parents have resolved their issues either by paying fees or accepting transfer certificates.

In summary, the dispute over fee hikes at Bengaluru's Daffodils English School Association has escalated due to the issuance of transfer certificates to students whose parents were protesting against the fee increase. This move follows allegations of unauthorized fee hikes and a lack of government clearance. The situation has led to a complex debate involving parental rights, responsibilities, and educational access.