Confusion over RTE Act remains, some schools for it, some not

Government’s delay in issuing a circular led to a delay in the admission of many non-state board schools this year. Hence, pre-primary admission for many non-state board schools in Mumbai, which usually begins by October-November, was postponed till December.

In April 2012, a Supreme Court order stated that all schools, except unaided minority ones, will have to keep aside 25 per cent seats at entry level (pre-primary or class I) for children from socially/economically weaker sections (EWS) under the Act. Later, an amendment to the law said only theological schools like madrasas and vedic schools can skip reservation. Other schools (including unaided minority schools) will have to keep aside 25 percent seats during admissions for next academic year. A circular dated December 5, 2012 that was issued on January 2, said unaided minority schools will not have to follow the 25 per cent quota.

Schools that will not reserve seats

Rustomjee Cambridge International, Dahisar

Admission: September - December

Term begins: February-March

Status: Unaided minority school

“We are a Parsi minority school. According to the Supreme Court order, we are exempt. Hence we decided to go ahead with the admissions process as per the schedule. We already provide free education to children of our class IV workers and support staff.”

Hanif Kanjer, Director

G D Somani School, Cuffe Parade

Admission: December -January

Term begins: March

Status:

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