New Delhi’s battle over private school fees took a decisive turn in the Supreme Court today, as the AAP government pledged to postpone the controversial 2025 Fee Regulation Act until the 2026-27 session. This concession addresses widespread apprehensions about abrupt changes mid-academic year.
Announced by ASG S.V. Raju on behalf of the education directorate, the deferral aims to allow schools, parents, and regulators sufficient time to adapt. Justice P.S. Narasimha’s bench had earlier questioned the haste, warning of potential hardships for all stakeholders.
Praising the law’s objectives to eliminate fee gouging, the court emphasized proper phasing. ‘The intent is commendable, but timing is everything,’ the bench noted, before closing proceedings on this front.
At its core, the act requires every private school to form a diverse fee fixation committee: management, principal, educators, parents, and a government observer. Proposals undergo rigorous scrutiny for fairness. Provisions also outlaw donation demands and cap extras like transport or development fees.
While constitutional challenges linger in Delhi High Court, filed by school bodies, today’s ruling prioritizes smooth rollout. Advocacy groups for parents celebrated the verdict, hailing it as a win against sudden financial burdens on families.
As Delhi pushes for equitable education, this judicial nudge ensures reforms strengthen rather than strain the system, promising a more transparent future for schooling in the national capital.
