Srinagar: In response to purported non-compliance with directives from the Fee Fixation and Regulation Committee (FFRC), the committee has summoned the principal of a private school to appear before it.
The FFRC’s decision comes in the wake of a viral video circulating on social media, alleging misconduct by the management of Kashmir Haward School, Naseem Bagh, Srinagar.
FFRC Chairperson issued an order stating that the school allegedly demanded an admission fee of Rs 85,000, a practice prohibited by law if proven true.
“Charging an admission fee is expressly prohibited by statute, and any violation of FFRC directives is strictly forbidden. No educational institution has the authority to levy fees without prior approval from the FFRC. Such actions not only raise moral and ethical concerns but also contravene legal statutes,” the order states.
Furthermore, the FFRC noted that the school failed to submit necessary documentation and fee regulation filings for the academic session 2024-25 within the prescribed timeline, which was on or before December 31, 2023.
The Chairperson emphasized that the school cannot unilaterally adjust its fee structures without FFRC approval, highlighting concerns about compliance with regulatory requirements.
In light of the allegations, the FFRC has directed the Chairman or Principal of the school to appear at the FFRC office in Hyderpora on April 3, 2024, at 12:20 pm, with all relevant details and information for thorough examination.
Potential actions may include initiating an inquiry by investigative agencies, suspending fee collection from students until resolution, and recommending to the government the suspension of the school’s recognition.
