Indore (Madhya Pradesh): Members of the MP Board Private Schools Association staged a protest at Regal Square in Indore, gathering in large numbers to submit a plea in the form of a letter to the statue of Mahatma Gandhi on Thursday.
All state-board schools in Madhya Pradesh (MP) remained closed on Thursday in protest against the new government policies. The association has expressed its frustration over the government's lack of support, despite numerous requests and letters sent in the past.
FP Photo
FP Photo
The protest highlights several pressing issues that the association claims are threatening the viability of private schools in the region. One of the major concerns is the government's new requirement for registered lease agreements for school buildings. Many schools, particularly those in rural areas, operate from rented properties that do not have such agreements, making it difficult for them to comply. Additionally, schools located in unauthorized colonies face challenges in fulfilling the new lease regulations.
Another significant issue raised by the association is the recent reduction in the lifespan of school vehicles from five years to just two years. School owners argue that this policy is impractical, as buses typically cover only 150 to 200 kilometers per day. The association also pointed out the rising transportation costs, with new buses priced between Rs 30 to 35 lakh and proposed fare hikes that could make transportation unaffordable for many students, particularly those from rural areas.
The association has warned that if these issues are not addressed, up to 50% of private schools in the region could be forced to close. “We urge the government to reconsider these policies and engage in meaningful dialogue to resolve these challenges,” said Subodh Kumar Sharma, President of the MP Board Private Schools Association.
The association is calling for urgent intervention to ensure the sustainability of private schools and the future of education in Madhya Pradesh.
