Why Has Rajasthan HC Expressed Outrage Over Coaching Institutes Regulation?
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Synopsis
The Rajasthan High Court has expressed significant dissatisfaction with the state's failure to regulate coaching institutes, highlighting an alarming rise in student suicides. As discussions stall, the urgency for action grows. Will the state finally address mental health pressures on students?
Key Takeaways
- Rajasthan High Court criticizes inaction on coaching institute regulation.
- 14 student suicides reported in 2023 raise alarm.
- Draft Coaching Regulation Bill faces opposition in Assembly.
- BJP MLAs call for broader consultation on the bill.
- Mental health of students must be prioritized.
Jaipur, May 14 (NationPress) The Rajasthan High Court voiced its strong disapproval on Wednesday regarding the state's failure to implement legislation governing coaching institutes, despite discussions that have been ongoing since 2019.
A division bench comprising Chief Justice M.M. Shrivastava and Justice Mukesh Rajpurohit condemned the lack of action, particularly in light of the alarming increase in student suicides—with 14 reported from January to May 8 this year. During the proceedings, Advocate General Rajendra Prasad revealed these troubling statistics.
The court, noting that the Supreme Court is scheduled to review a related issue on May 23, has set the next hearing for two weeks later. The court had previously taken suo motu cognizance of the matter back in 2016, after numerous suicides in Kota. Though a draft Coaching Regulation Bill was prepared and presented to the Assembly this year, it was subsequently sent to a Select Committee due to opposition, particularly from BJP MLAs.
BJP’s Kalicharan Saraf criticized the bill, cautioning that in its current form, it could displace coaching institutes from Rajasthan, thereby jeopardizing jobs and impacting a Rs 60,000 crore industry. He advocated for broader consultations, improved representation in oversight committees, and the inclusion of Central guidelines, such as notifying parents if a student is absent for two consecutive days.
The High Court emphasized the urgent need to tackle mental health issues affecting students and to put regulations into effect, asserting that mere discussions without tangible action are futile. BJP MLA Gopal Sharma questioned the absence of certain provisions from the Central guidelines in the Coaching Regulation Bill, stating, "If there is a double-engine government, let’s coordinate. The Central guidelines allow coaching for children above 16 years; why is this missing in the bill?"
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the significance of the Rajasthan High Court's concerns, reflecting a broader national issue regarding student mental health and the pressing need for regulations in coaching institutions. This situation calls for immediate action and collaborative efforts to ensure the well-being of students across the country.
NationPress
02/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the Rajasthan High Court's displeasure?
The Rajasthan High Court expressed strong displeasure due to the state's failure to enact a law regulating coaching institutes, despite ongoing discussions since 2019.
How many student suicides have been reported this year?
A total of 14 student suicides have been reported in Rajasthan from January to May 8 this year.
What are the concerns regarding the Coaching Regulation Bill?
Concerns include potential job losses in a Rs 60,000 crore industry and the absence of Central guidelines in the bill.
When is the next hearing scheduled?
The next hearing is scheduled for two weeks after the Supreme Court's review on May 23.
What is the court's stance on mental health issues?
The High Court stresses the need to address mental health pressures on students urgently and to implement regulations.
