Delhi High Court directs DoE to enforce measures on 'special schools and hostels'
The Delhi High Court has directed the Directorate of Education (DoE) and the Delhi government to ensure the smooth functioning and maintenance of seven special schools and hostels in the capital.
New Delhi: The Delhi High Court on Thursday issued a series of directions to the Directorate of Education (DoE) and the Delhi government to enforce the smooth functioning and maintenance of seven special schools and hostels in the national capital. As per the directions of the Delhi High Court, the DoE has to operate and maintain these seven schools as per the mandate of Section 31 of the Right of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.
Allegations about the Education Directorate
These directions came in response to a plea filed by the National Federation of the Blind in 2018, with the main aim of addressing concerns over the facilities provided to blind children in hostels.
“DoE, GNCTD will continue to operate and maintain these seven (7) schools as special schools as per the mandate of Section 31 of the Right of Persons with Disabilities Act, (RPWD) 2016,” the report said.
According to the court, the DoE is responsible for ensuring timely and quality food, uniforms, clothing and recreational facilities for all students in the special schools.
Mandatory directions issued by the Delhi High Court
The division bench of the High Court further advised the DoE to appoint a chief inspector for each hostel, permanent cooks, sanitary staff, caretakers and security guards within eight weeks to ensure uninterrupted facilities. In addition, timely availability of Braille books, aids and other reading materials for students in special schools was also advised.
As reported by the court commissioner, the court also directed the DoE to timely inspect and improve the existing facilities in the schools and hostels and also work towards making these facilities a model for the country. Adding to this, the court also said that the hostels should maintain the living conditions of the students and also upgrade them from time to time to avoid the possibility of any kind of blunder.
The DoE was also tasked to review all proposed steps for hostels and implement mandatory budgetary allocations for the financial year 2024-2025 by February 28. The court also took note of all necessary steps taken by the Delhi government to fulfill its responsibilities under Section 31 of the RPWD Act. The court also expressed confidence that prioritizing compliance with the given directions would make the special schools and hostel facilities a model that other states could follow.
(With input from agencies)