Jamshedpur: The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has taken a stern stand against ongoing irregularities and the blatant disregard for rules in the prestigious private schools of the Steel City. The Commission has sought an investigation report from the Education Secretary of the Jharkhand Government regarding allegations of fraud in lottery-based admissions and the appointment of unqualified teachers.
Reputed Schools Under Scanner for Admission Fraud
Taking cognizance of a complaint filed by BJP leader Ankit Anand, NCPCR Registrar Rajesh Kumar Singh has issued strict directives. Several prominent schools in the city have been specifically named in the investigation, including:
- Loyola School (Birsanagar)
- Little Flower School (Telco)
- Clooney Preparatory, St. Mary’s, and St. Joseph’s
- Beldih Church, Sacred Heart Convent, and Carmel School (Sonari)
The complaint alleges that these institutions are acting arbitrarily under the guise of their “minority status.” Serious accusations have been made regarding the manipulation of software-based admission processes due to political and union pressure.
Concerns Over Safety and Qualifications
Beyond admission malpractices, the Commission has expressed grave concern over child safety and the quality of education. According to the report:
- Many schools are employing teachers who lack the mandatory educational qualifications and professional training.
- There has been a failure to conduct police verification for staff and teachers, which is a direct compromise on the safety of innocent children.
NCPCR Warns of Strict Legal Action
The NCPCR clarified that it possesses the powers of a Civil Court. It has directed the state Education Secretary of Jharkhand to conduct an in-depth investigation into these allegations at the district level.
The Commission warned that schools found violating regulations could face the cancellation of their affiliation or heavy financial penalties. Furthermore, the Commission has mandated that progress on the investigation and details of the actions taken must be shared with the complainant.
This decisive move by the NCPCR has sent shockwaves through the management of private schools in Jamshedpur. The administration and school authorities will now have to provide concrete evidence of transparency in their operations.
