Dhanbad: Members of the Jharkhand Abhibhavak Mahasangh protested at Randhir Verma Chowk here on Wednesday against the alleged arbitrary fees charged by private schools in violation of CBSE guidelines and Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009.The protest was organised in response to complaints from parents regarding re-admission charges and imposition of additional fees under various heads, including books, building maintenance, development charge and annual sports.Mahasangh president Pappu Singh, who also observed a six-hour hunger strike to press for their demands, said that the issue had been repeatedly brought to the notice of the district administration and officials, but no concrete action has been taken so far.“Schools are charging hidden fees in the name of free admission, which is unjustified and exploitative,” he said, adding that parents are being forced to bear unnecessary expenses.Protesters warned that if their concerns are not addressed promptly, the agitation would be intensified.Sunny Raj, deputy development commissioner, stated that complaints from the parents’ body have been received. “I have directed the district education officer and district superintendent of education to submit a report. Schools must adhere to the prescribed rules and charge fees accordingly,” he said, adding that further action will be taken after the submission of the report.
