Atishi Claims Delhi Government Plans Annual 10% School Fee Increase
Introduction
In a strong appeal to the Delhi government, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi has raised concerns over the rising school fees in private institutions across the city. In a letter addressed to Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, Atishi has urged immediate action to prevent any school from collecting increased fees until a thorough audit is conducted.
Demand for Audits
Atishi, who also serves as the Leader of Opposition in the Delhi assembly, emphasized the need for transparency and accountability. She insisted that all schools seeking a fee increase should undergo audits by auditors empanelled with the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India. According to Atishi, any fee hike, even as minimal as 1-2 percent, should only be allowed if the school’s legitimate expenses cannot be met without such an increase.
Allegations Against the Government
In a social media post, Atishi disclosed that a meeting occurred on April 6, 2025, between Delhi’s Education Minister Ashish Sood and representatives of private schools. During this meeting, assurances were allegedly given that schools could raise fees once protests from parents and the AAP subsided. Atishi expressed concern over a proposed government notification that would permit a 10 percent annual increase in school fees without audits, suggesting that such a decision would financially burden parents.
Political Accusations
Atishi’s letter further accused the current administration of colluding with private schools to allow unchecked fee hikes. She claimed that the BJP’s ascension to power in Delhi has led to a situation where private schools are exploiting parents by imposing exorbitant fees. Atishi referenced previous practices under the AAP-led government, where school fees were tightly regulated, requiring audits before any increase was sanctioned.
Public Outcry
Parents of students in private schools have reportedly taken to the streets in protest, voicing their displeasure over the fee hikes. They have expressed concerns about being unable to continue their children’s education due to financial constraints. Atishi highlighted the stark contrast between the current scenario and the AAP government’s tenure, where mechanisms were in place to ensure fair fee structures.
Conclusion
Atishi’s call for action reflects a broader discontent among parents and opposition parties regarding the governance of school fee regulations in Delhi. As the situation unfolds, the demand for transparency and accountability continues to grow, with many urging the government to prioritize the interests of parents and students alike.
With inputs from PTI