Supreme Court uphold mandatory admissions in schools under Right to Education Act

Why in the News?
The Supreme Court of India has upheld the mandatory admission of students under the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009, calling it a “national mission” and directing that schools must admit students allotted by the state without delay.

About Right to Education (RTE)
The RTE framework is based on Article 21A, which guarantees free and compulsory education for children aged 6–14 years as a Fundamental Right. It was inserted by the Constitution (86th Amendment) Act, 2002. The RTE Act, 2009 operationalises this right by ensuring access to quality elementary education with specified norms and standards.

Key Judgment Highlights
The Court ruled that neighbourhood schools, including private unaided institutions, are legally bound to admit students selected under the RTE framework. It emphasised that denying admission to children from weaker and disadvantaged sections violates their fundamental right to education. The Court also clarified that schools cannot question or override eligibility decisions made by government authorities and must admit students once the state forwards the list.

25% Reservation Provision
The judgment reaffirmed the importance of the 25% reservation for economically weaker and disadvantaged groups in private schools, stating that it has the potential to transform social structures and promote equality and inclusion.

Significance
The ruling strengthens the enforceability of the RTE Act, ensures accountability of private schools, and reinforces education as a fundamental right. It also supports social justice by enabling access to quality education for marginalised children.

Source: AIR