Hyderabad, May 5 (RAHNUMA): The Telangana State Human Rights Commission (TGHRC) has taken a firm stand against the practice of advance fee collection by private schools, directing the authorities to initiate action in a recent case from Boduppal.
The Commission, headed by Dr. Justice Shameem Akther, was hearing a complaint alleging that a private school in Boduppal demanded 50% of the annual fee in advance for the 2026–2027 academic year. The complaint also highlighted that parents were being compelled to make upfront payments for books and uniforms, often through designated vendors.
Taking serious note of the issue, the Commission observed that such practices are ‘improper, arbitrary, and violate established legal principles’ that prohibit the commercialization of education. It reiterated that education is a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Constitution and cannot be treated as a profit-driven enterprise.
The TGHRC further emphasized that forcing parents to bear a heavy financial burden in one go, along with the lack of transparency in procurement of study materials, raises serious concerns about fairness and accountability in the education system.
Acting on the complaint, the Commission recommended that the District Educational Officer of Medchal-Malkajgiri district take appropriate action against erring institutions. It also directed officials to ensure strict adherence to fee regulation norms, particularly those mandating phased collection of school fees.
The Commission has sought a detailed action-taken report within the stipulated time frame under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993. Following these directions, the case has been formally closed.
The move is expected to bring relief to many parents facing financial strain due to such practices and serves as a strong warning to schools against violating fee norms.
