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Schools in Maharashtra Risk Derecognition Over Marathi
20 Apr
Summary
- Schools risk fines up to Rs 1 lakh for not teaching Marathi.
- Marathi teaching has been compulsory since the 2020-21 academic year.
- Schools must not force parents to buy materials from specific vendors.
Schools throughout Maharashtra are under renewed scrutiny, with the risk of substantial fines up to Rs 1 lakh and even derecognition for failing to teach Marathi, a language mandated by state law since the 2020-21 academic year. The School Education Department has issued a Government Resolution (GR) to enforce compliance across all educational boards and mediums for students from Classes 1 to 10.
Divisional deputy directors of education are now designated as competent authorities responsible for school inspections within two months of the academic year's commencement. Schools found in violation will receive notices, with 15 days to respond before potential penalties are imposed. Management can appeal, but persistent non-compliance may lead to hearings before the School Education Commissioner.
In a related directive issued on Thursday, the Maharashtra school education department also reinforced a 2004 GR, prohibiting schools from compelling parents to buy uniforms, textbooks, or other materials from specific vendors. Local education offices are establishing grievance redressal mechanisms, including dedicated email IDs and nodal officers, to handle parental complaints ahead of the new academic year in June.
