Are Unauthorised Schools Still Operating in Maharashtra?
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Synopsis
The Maharashtra Assembly has revealed alarming truths about unauthorised schools. With over a hundred schools operating illegally, the government is under pressure to enforce regulations and protect student rights. Minister Dadaji Bhuse’s statements shed light on the actions being taken to rectify this pressing educational issue.
Key Takeaways
- 103 unauthorised schools have faced punitive action.
- 126 schools have criminal charges against them.
- 218 schools failed to renew their certificates.
- The government emphasizes compliance with the Right to Education (RTE).
- Plans are underway to close 85 more unauthorised schools.
Mumbai, July 16 (NationPress) – In a recent Assembly session, State Minister of School Education Dadaji Bhuse acknowledged the existence of unauthorised schools operating in Mumbai and throughout Maharashtra without the necessary governmental approval. In response to a query from member Bhaskar Jadhav, he disclosed that action had been taken against 103 of the 420 unauthorised schools identified in the Mumbai region. Additionally, criminal cases have been filed against 126 of these institutions, while 47 have been shut down.
Within the jurisdiction of the BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation, there are currently 1,057 schools—both grant and non-grant—that are operating with approvals granted by the civic body’s education committee at various times. The minister noted that among these, 218 schools failed to secure permission for certificate renewal in 2022. Of these, 211 have since received approval under the Right to Education (RTE) framework, whereas seven have been closed.
Minister Bhuse emphasized that the government has consistently issued directives to take action against unauthorised educational institutions. Plans are underway to initiate action against those operating without compliance, including schools established before and after 2013, in accordance with a government decision dated March 10, 2010 and the Unauthorised Schools and Maharashtra Self-Financed Schools (Establishment and Regulation) Rules 2012.
Furthermore, the government has mandated the closure of non-compliant unauthorised schools while also ensuring that students from these institutions are accommodated in nearby schools to prevent disruption in their education.
The Minister has received a proposal from the School Education Commissioner to shut down 85 unauthorised schools within the BMC area, which is currently under consideration by the government.
In a separate matter, Industry Minister Uday Samant, responding to a motion by member Mahesh Sawant, assured that instructions would be issued to the BMC to allocate funds for the Mahim Mori Road Municipal School in the G/North zone.
Minister Samant explained that the Mahim Mori Road Municipal School building, which consists of a four-story structure, was classified as C-1 (dangerous) after an inspection on September 28, 2020, leading to its evacuation.
A proposal for the reconstruction of this school is being forwarded for approval to the Mumbai Fire Brigade and Building Proposals (Special Cell), with plans to commence work in the 2025-2026 financial year. The total enrollment in the Mahim Mori Road Municipal School was 1,568 students in the 2019-20 academic year. Following the evacuation, students from the Mahim Mori Road Urdu schools have been relocated to the R.C. Church Mahim school, while remaining Marathi and English schools have moved to the New Mahim Municipal School.
Point of View
We recognize the critical need for educational compliance in Maharashtra. The recent admission of unauthorised schools operating without government oversight highlights the challenges faced in maintaining educational standards. We stand with the government in its efforts to regulate these institutions and ensure every child's right to quality education is upheld.
NationPress
16/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What actions are being taken against unauthorised schools?
The government has initiated punitive actions against several unauthorised schools, including criminal registrations and closures. Specific proposals to shut down additional schools are currently under consideration.
How many unauthorised schools are operating in Mumbai?
Currently, there are approximately 420 unauthorised schools functioning in Mumbai.
What is the Right to Education (RTE)?
The Right to Education (RTE) is a legislative act in India that ensures free and compulsory education for children aged 6 to 14 years.
What measures are in place for students affected by school closures?
The government has issued instructions to accommodate students from closed unauthorised schools in nearby authorized institutions to minimize disruption.
When is the reconstruction of the Mahim Mori Road Municipal School planned?
The reconstruction is planned to commence in the financial year 2025-2026, pending approval from relevant authorities.
