Avinash Azad
In response to concerns raised by MLA Shamim Firdous regarding the regulation of private school fees and transportation safety, the Jammu & Kashmir government has outlined its existing and planned measures to address these pressing issues.
Fee Regulation and Control Mechanism
The MLA inquired whether the government intends to implement a control mechanism for private schools concerning monthly fees, bus fares, donations, and admission fees. The government, in its reply, stated that the “Fee Fixation and Regulation Committee” (FFRC) has been constituted in compliance with the Supreme Court’s directive in the Islamic Academy of Education and Others vs. State of Karnataka case. The committee is mandated to fix and regulate the fee structure of private schools in the Union Territory.
To ensure enforcement, the Education Department has instructed all Heads of Departments (HoDs) to establish Zonal Level Committees comprising Zonal Education Officers (ZEOs), Cluster Heads, and Headmasters. Additionally, a District Level Committee, headed by the Deputy Chief Education Officer, will oversee and promptly address complaints regarding fee-related violations. Any instances of overcharging will be communicated to the JKFFRC for necessary action under existing rules.
Addressing Overcrowding in School Buses
The MLA further questioned whether the government acknowledges overcrowding in school transport as a significant safety concern. The government affirmed that student safety in school buses and vans remains a top priority. To address this issue, private schools must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Assistant Regional Transport Officer as part of their recognition, extension, or upgradation process. However, monitoring overcrowding on roads falls under the jurisdiction of the Traffic Department.
The Education Department has also directed HoDs to form Zonal and District Level Committees to handle complaints related to transportation violations. Schools have been instructed to adhere to strict safety guidelines, including:
– Ensuring all school buses are painted yellow and display the school’s name and driver’s contact number.
– Verifying that drivers possess valid licenses and requisite experience.
– Installing CCTV cameras, GPS tracking systems, and fire extinguishers in school buses.
– Conducting student awareness programs on traffic safety.
Additionally, a circular issued under No. 11-Edu of 2017 on December 27, 2017, provides detailed safety standards that schools must maintain. Regular meetings are conducted with the Traffic and Transport Departments and major private schools to ensure compliance with traffic rules.
Road Safety Awareness Initiatives
To reinforce safety measures, schools observe Road Safety Month annually, organizing events such as quiz competitions, workshops, street plays (nukkad nataks), rallies, poster-making contests, and road safety pledges. Advocacy programs and counseling sessions are also conducted for drivers and students to emphasize the importance of adhering to transportation regulations. As part of the enforcement strategy, regulations have been established to limit the number of children transported in school buses according to the Automotive Industry Standard-063.
Government’s Commitment to Student Welfare The J&K government reassures parents and stakeholders that it remains committed to addressing concerns regarding school fee regulation and transport safety. While fee-related violations will be strictly monitored by the FFRC, ensuring safe school transportation will require coordinated efforts from school administrations, traffic authorities, and the education department.
