Jammu: The Jammu and Kashmir government on Thursday extended the tenure of Justice (Retired) Sunil Hali as Chairman of the Fee Fixation and Regulation Committee (FFRC) for private schools by one month, or until a new incumbent is appointed, whichever is earlier.
According to an official order issued by the School Education Department, the extension takes effect from April 1, 2026, following the completion of his previous term on March 31.
The order, issued by the Commissioner Secretary to the Government, states that the extension has been granted under Rule 4(3) of the Jammu and Kashmir Private Schools (Fixation, Determination and Regulation of Fee) Rules, 2022.
“In exercise of the powers conferred under Rule 4(3) of the Jammu and Kashmir Private Schools (Fixation, Determination and Regulation of Fee) Rules, 2022, the Government hereby extends the term of Justice (Retired) Sunil Hali as Chairperson of the Committee for Fixation, Determination and Regulation of Fee of Private Schools, from the date on which his previous term expires, i.e., 31.03.2026, for a further period of one month or till a new incumbent is appointed, whichever is earlier,” the order reads.
It further states that the terms and conditions of his office shall remain unchanged, as notified in the earlier government notification issued in 2023.
The decision assumes significance in the backdrop of widespread public concern over the recent fee hikes by private schools across Jammu and Kashmir. During Justice Hali’s tenure, the FFRC had come under scrutiny amid allegations of inadequate regulation and growing complaints from parents regarding escalating school fees.
The extension, though brief, is being viewed as a stopgap arrangement until the government finalizes the appointment of a new chairperson to head the regulatory body tasked with overseeing fee structures in private educational institutions.
Notably, the move comes despite earlier indications from the government leadership against extending or reappointing officials beyond their stipulated tenure, making this short-term extension an exception.
The FFRC plays a crucial role in ensuring transparency and preventing profiteering by private schools in the Union Territory. With mounting public pressure and increasing demand for stricter regulation, the appointment of a new chairperson is expected to be closely watched in the coming weeks.
