Navi Mumbai: A hunger strike by six parents against the fee structure and “ill-treatment” of students at St Joseph High School, Panvel, entered the fifth day on Monday.
A large crowd of parents joined in and raised slogans against the school for the alleged harassment of students who have not paid their fees and for the rise in fees every year.
“Last year, after a strike, the Education Department had promised to take action against the school if it raised fees, but none of the promises were fulfilled. Six of us took to a hunger strike but all the parents have extended their support,” said Atul Pawar, father of a student.
According to the parents, the students who have not been able to pay fees on time are treated differently in class as well as on the school ground. “This affects the students mentally. For a late fee, the school charges a ₹5 penalty on a daily basis. The school also ignores the National Anthem, pledge and Constitution, and preaches about one religion,” Mr Pawar said.
“We have taken cognizance of the issue. Meanwhile, we have sent a proposal to the Director of the Education Board to cancel recognition of the school,” said Madhura Kuberkar, Block Education Officer, Panvel.
Added Raigad District Education Officer Sheshrao Bade, “We have written to the school asking them to not take any decision about the fees till March 8 wherein we will conduct a meeting about the fee structure of private schools. We have also asked the school to include the National Anthem, pledge and Constitution of India in their routine. Though the school denies the allegation of not having the National Anthem and pledge in their routine, some parents have complained to us against it. The school has accepted all our terms as of now and a decision on fees will be made after March 8.”
Meanwhile, Saida Malim, the principal of the school was not available for comment, and a text message sent to her went unanswered.
