The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has taken strict action against several schools in Rajasthan and Delhi, withdrawing the affiliation of 21 schools due to significant numbers of non-attending students in classes IX to XII. In addition, six schools in Delhi were downgraded from senior secondary to secondary level after irregularities were discovered during surprise inspections.

The CBSE conducted a series of surprise inspections across Rajasthan and Delhi on September 3, targeting 27 schools affiliated with the board. The main objective of these inspections was to ensure that schools were adhering to the regulations regarding student attendance as outlined in the Affiliation and Examination Bye-Laws of the Board. These laws require schools to maintain regular attendance of students, particularly in higher classes, to ensure their academic progress.

CBSE inspection findings

After reviewing the inspection findings, including video evidence, the CBSE issued Show Cause Notices to the affected schools, giving them 30 days to respond. Upon examination of their replies, it was determined that 21 schools had not complied with the attendance norms. As a result, their affiliations were revoked, and the schools will no longer be able to conduct CBSE examinations or offer the board’s certifications. Among these 21 de-affiliated schools, 16 are located in Delhi and five in Rajasthan.

Additionally, the CBSE downgraded six schools in Delhi from the senior secondary level to the secondary level after further investigation revealed discrepancies in their operations. These inspections revealed that the schools had been indulging in the practice of dummy or non-attending admissions, a practice that undermines the quality of education and compromises the students’ foundational growth.

CBSE concerned over non-attending admissions

The CBSE expressed its concern over the practice of non-attending admissions, stressing that it directly contradicts the core mission of school education. Such practices hinder the holistic development of students and harm the educational ecosystem. The Board clarified that it would take decisive action against the proliferation of dummy schools to safeguard the interests of genuine students and send a strong message to all affiliated institutions to resist the temptation of accepting non-attending students.

This move reflects the CBSE’s commitment to upholding the integrity of the education system and ensuring that schools maintain high standards of academic and operational conduct. The Board’s efforts to crack down on such irregularities aim to promote a more transparent and accountable educational environment.

(With ANI inputs)