With a scathing remark on dismal state of public education in Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory, the Jammu and Kashmir High Court has ordered check on ongoing free frenzy in private schools.
Noting that the public education system in Jammu and Kashmir has “collapsed,” forcing parents to depend on private schools despite soaring costs. The Court called for robust enforcement, transparency in fee fixation and urgent reforms to restore credibility and affordability in the education sector in Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory.
Underscoring the statutory role of the J&K Fee Fixation and Regulation Committee, the Bench observed that unchecked fee hikes by private institutions have added to the burden on households and exposed serious regulatory gaps.
While stressing that education cannot be treated as a profit-driven enterprise, the Court reiterated that private schools are bound by the fee structure approved by the competent authority and must strictly adhere to the guidelines framed by the JKFFC. Any deviation, the Court cautioned, would invite strict action.
