Bombay HC Seeks Details Of 14 Allegedly Unauthorised Malwani Schools, Weighs Relief To Protect Students’ Academic Year

Mumbai's Bombay High Court has sought information on 14 allegedly unauthorized schools in the Malwani area, expressing worry about the disruption to ongoing student academic years. A court bench led by Chief Justice MC Tripathi and Justice Advait Sethna directed authorities to file an affidavit outlining the schools' authorization status, student and teacher numbers, affiliations, start dates, and actions taken against them.

The court aims to determine if any relief can be provided to enable students to finish their current academic year uninterrupted. The court's ruling came during a hearing of a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by Nazir Khan, who challenged the civic body's decision to shut down the 14 schools swiftly. The bench also questioned the circumstances under which the authorities allowed these allegedly unauthorized institutions to function, especially when the civic body claimed they lacked recognition.

The civic body's attorney, Poornima Kantharia, informed the court that notices had been issued to the schools to stop accepting new students, yet the institutions continued to admit and educate students. The court acknowledged the students' situation, stating that their ongoing academic year should not be disrupted, as it could cause "grave and irreparable prejudice."

The court would assess whether some relaxation could be granted to allow students to complete their academic year. The civic body has been asked to file its reply before the next hearing, scheduled for November 4.