The recent remarks by Education Minister Sakina Itoo on taking action against private schools violating government norms may sound familiar. Over the years, various regimes have echoed similar promises, yet many private schools continue to operate unchecked, prioritizing profit over quality education. For countless parents and students in Jammu and Kashmir, this cycle has resulted in high fees, poor facilities, and limited oversight — leaving them to fend for themselves against mounting costs and limited recourse.
These private institutions, once envisioned as alternatives to alleviate the burden on government schools, have turned into businesses, with education taking a back seat to revenue generation. Across the Union Territory, many private schools lack even basic infrastructure, with some failing to provide safe drinking water or playgrounds for children. Essential facilities are often inadequate or absent altogether, yet parents are burdened with inflated monthly fees, exorbitant uniform costs from exclusive vendors, and proprietary books that are changed frequently.
The Education Department has issued norms and regulations, but without strict enforcement, these guidelines are mere words on paper. This time, the promise to “take action” must be different. Authorities must implement thorough inspections to ensure all private schools meet the required standards in infrastructure, safety, and affordability. Clear mechanisms should also be established for parents to report violations and demand accountability.
For too long, parents in Jammu and Kashmir have endured this exploitative system alone, watching their hard-earned money drained by schools that fail to provide a basic quality education. They need more than promises; they need results. It’s time for the government to act swiftly and ensure that private schools are held accountable. Only through a concerted effort to regulate and reform can we truly protect our children’s right to an accessible, quality education and put an end to this era of unchecked profiteering.
