02 May 2024 Public Interest Litigation >> Constitution & Law Procedure   |   Education >> Miscellaneous  

A Delhi High Court order has ruled that parents are responsible for the cost of air conditioning in private schools. The court dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging a school's policy of charging ?2,000 per month for AC in classrooms.

The petitioner, a parent with a child studying in the aforementioned school, argued that the school should bear the cost of air conditioning itself. They claimed this charge violated the Delhi School Education Rules (DSE Rules).

The court, however, disagreed. They pointed out that the petitioner acknowledged their child benefitted from the air conditioning facility. Additionally, the court found no evidence that the school violated any rules by charging for AC.

In its judgement, the court compared the AC fee to other charges levied by schools for optional facilities like labs or smart classes. The court reasoned that just like parents pay for these amenities, they should be responsible for the cost of air conditioning as well.

The decision also highlighted the concept of parental choice. When selecting a school, parents should consider the facilities offered and the associated costs. Choosing a school with air conditioning implies accepting the responsibility of these expenses.

Finally, the court noted that the Directorate of Education (DoE) was already investigating the matter. Since the DoE was actively involved, the court felt it unnecessary to entertain the PIL further.

In conclusion, the Delhi High Court has ruled that the cost of air conditioning in private schools falls on the parents. This decision emphasizes that parents choosing schools with such amenities are responsible for the related expenses.