The Directorate of Education (DoE) has issued a strict advisory to private schools following massive protests by the Delhi Parents Association. Parents have accused several schools in East and South-West Delhi of pressuring them for unapproved fee hikes for the new academic session. The government has warned that any school increasing fees despite the court stay will be held liable for contempt of court.
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Why are parents protesting against private schools?
Parents have raised concerns about schools in areas like Mayur Vihar and South-West Delhi demanding higher fees without the necessary government approvals. According to complaints filed with the education department, some schools have allegedly withheld student report cards or even struck names off the lists to force payment. While some school administrators claim they are only asking for previous dues, parents describe these actions as arbitrary and coercive tactics that have continued for nearly two years.
What are the latest legal rules for school fees in Delhi?
The Delhi High Court and the education department have made it clear that schools cannot increase fees for the 2026-27 academic session. Under the Delhi School Education Act 2025, any hike requires approval from a committee including district officials and parent representatives. The current official status is as follows:
| Authority | Directive issued |
|---|---|
| Delhi High Court | Stayed fee hikes for 2026-27 academic year |
| Directorate of Education | Warned of Contempt of Court for fee increases |
| Delhi Government | Mandatory 20-day refund for unapproved extra fees |
| Supreme Court | Implementation of new regulation act deferred to 2026-27 |
The Directorate of Education clarified that following the High Court order on February 28, 2026, no school level fee regulation committees can process any new fee revision proposals. Any school or official found violating these instructions will be considered to be acting illegally. Schools are strictly permitted to collect only the old fee amounts until further judicial clarity is provided.
