Delhi's Education Directorate Prohibits Fee Hikes in Private Schools for Upcoming Academic Year
Overview of School Fee Regulations
School Fees: As the new academic year approaches on April 1st, parents are actively preparing for their children's return to school. This includes purchasing necessary stationery, which has resulted in increased financial burdens. Concurrently, many private schools are also gearing up for the new session, with numerous institutions already raising their fees and others contemplating similar increases. In response, the Directorate of Education in Delhi has issued a directive to private schools, stating that fee hikes are currently prohibited.
Details of the Directorate's Advisory
The advisory from the Directorate of Education outlines specific guidelines regarding fee structures in private schools, including potential consequences for non-compliance.
Directive Against Fee Hikes: Citing High Court Order
The Directorate has mandated that private schools maintain their current fee structures without any increases. This directive references a ruling from the Delhi High Court dated February 28, 2026. The advisory was disseminated by the Zone 13 office of the Directorate of Education (District North-West B), ensuring that no private school in Delhi can raise fees for the upcoming academic year.
Restrictions on Committee Formation
Schools Barred from Constituting Committees
In accordance with existing regulations, a School Level Fee Regulation Committee (SLFRC) is typically required at each school. However, the latest directive has temporarily halted the establishment of such committees. For the academic year 2026-27, no proposals regarding fee adjustments or increases submitted through the SLFRC will be approved. Thus, schools are prohibited from raising fees in any category until further notice from the Delhi High Court.
Consequences for Non-Compliance
Schools to be Held Guilty of Contempt of the High Court
The advisory clearly states that any school that raises fees, forms an SLFRC, or seeks approval for a fee increase will be deemed in contempt of the High Court's order. The administration of such schools will face personal accountability for these actions.
