CHANDIGARH, September 20— The Chandigarh Administration has begun inspections of 78 unrecognised schools across the city, in a first-of-its-kind exercise that will decide the future of 12,152 students and the livelihood of hundreds of teachers.
The move follows a meeting between the Sarvhara Education Welfare Association (SEWA) and Punjab Governor-cum-UT Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria, during which the association demanded recognition for schools that have been running — in some cases for over 25 to 30 years.
SEWA maintained that most of the schools now comply with structural and safety norms and urged that inspections be expedited. Acting on Kataria’s directions, UT Education Secretary Prerna Puri set up a multi-departmental committee with representatives from the Deputy Commissioner’s office, Chief Engineer, Chief Architect, and the Municipal Corporation’s Fire Department.
“This is the first time such an exercise is being carried out in Chandigarh,” confirmed Director School Education Harsuhinder Pal Singh Brar, calling it crucial for both students and staff.
The committee will begin field inspections after schools submit compliance reports by September 30. Findings will be assessed under the Right to Education (RTE) Act and the Punjab Education Code.
In its memorandum, SEWA cautioned that delays could spark unrest among parents and staff but welcomed the initiative. “A favourable decision will secure the future of 12,000 children and thousands of families who depend on these schools,” the association said.
Recognition is formal approval by the government, ensuring that schools meet standards for infrastructure, safety, teaching staff, and curriculum. Running a school without recognition is illegal under the RTE Act, 2009, and such institutions can be ordered to shut down.
