Indore (Madhya Pradesh): Members of the MP Board Private School Association staged a protest against the new government policies at Regal Square here on Thursday and submitted a plea in the form of a letter to the statue of Mahatma Gandhi.
All state board private schools in Madhya Pradesh (MP) remained closed on Thursday. The association has expressed its frustration over lack of government support, despite numerous requests and letters sent in the past.
The protest highlighted several pressing issues that the association claimed were threatening the viability of private schools in the region. One of the major concerns is the new requirement for registered lease agreements for school buildings.
Many schools, particularly those in rural areas, operate from rented properties that do not have such agreements, making it difficult for them to comply. Additionally, schools located in unauthorised colonies also face difficulty fulfilling the new lease regulations.
Another significant issue raised by the association is the recent reduction in the lifespan of school vehicles from five years to just two years. School owners argue that this policy is impractical, as buses typically cover only 150 to 200 kilometres per day. The association also pointed out the rising transportation costs, saying the proposed fare hikes could make transportation unaffordable for many students, particularly those from rural areas.
The association has warned that if these issues are not addressed, up to 50% of private schools in the region may be forced to close down.
“We urge the government to reconsider these policies and engage in meaningful dialogue to resolve these challenges”, said Subodh Kumar Sharma, president of the MP Board Private School Association. The association is calling for urgent government intervention to ensure the sustainability of private schools and the future of education in Madhya Pradesh.
