New Delhi: The Delhi High Court has pulled up Delhi Public School (DPS), Dwarka, for public shaming of 31 students whose parents had defaulted on payment of fees.
The court acknowledged that schools have the right to collect fees, but they must not function like commercial enterprises.
“Public shaming or intimidation of a student on account of financial default, especially through force or coercive action, not only constitutes mental harassment but also undermines the psychological well-being and self-worth of a child,” the high court said.
The high court also slammed authorities for using bouncers to stop students from entering the school campus.
“It fosters a climate of fear, humiliation and exclusion that is incompatible with the fundamental ethos of a school,” the court pointed out, reminding the management that the main purpose of schools is to teach and build values, not just to earn money.
Having removed the names of 31 students from its rolls because of non-payment of fees, DPS Dwarka later informed the court it had taken back the decision and allowed the students to return.
The court said the issue had become less serious as the students had been reinstated, but still made strong remarks against the school for having the students to go through the ordeal.
The court also said that parents are equally bound to fulfil their obligations. “It must also be emphasised that the concerned parents are obliged to adhere to and comply with the orders passed by this Court as regards payment of requisite fees to the school.”
The High Court directed that its May 16 judgment, regarding the payment of fees, must be followed.
