Govt extends last date for clearing dues to private schools to April 30

Srinagar: The J&K government has ordered for extension of the last date for clearing of the pending fee to private schools to April 30.

The decision has been taken amid complaints against the private schools pressurising parents to clear their pending dues by March 31.

“Taking cognizance of the issue, in the interest of the public at large and students and their parents in particular, it is ordered that the last date to deposit the school fee is extended to April 30 without any late fee,” reads an order issued by Principal Secretary, School Education, Asgar Samoon.

It says in view of the pandemic, it was not possible for students to deposit the fees as per the schedule fixed by the private schools.

“And it is unethical to pressurize parents and students amidst prevailing circumstances to do so,” the order reads.

“And violation reported if any shall be viewed seriously and warrant stern action under rules,” the order reads.

The government has also instructed the private schools not to charge any fee for the online lectures or assignments or link the result of the child on the basis of home assignment.

“The management bodies of all CBSE and JKBOSE affiliated private schools of UT of J&K are directed to issue appropriate direction in this regard,” the order reads.

Earlier, complaints were received against several private schools for pressurizing parents to clear all their pending dues.

“It has come to notice of the government that some private schools in J&K fixed March 30 as the last date for depositing school fees and are sending messages to the students and their parents to deposit the fees immediately,” the order reads.

The government has appreciated the private schools for giving home assignments to the students through WhatsApp and other means.

The government has ordered that Directorate of School Educations, Jammu and Kashmir will take a decision about annual fee charged by school after giving an opportunity to hear all stakeholders including parents and private school representatives.

“The Directorates should submit their recommendations to the administrative department within a week,” the order reads.

GK