Govt to private schools: Don’t ask for Aadhaar
The Delhi Directorate of Education ( DoE) has warned all private schools in the national capital against asking for Aadhaar number of children while admitting them in entry level classes under the EWS/ DG category or refusing admission to students on other grounds like distance, minor spelling errors, etc.
The computerised draw of lots for admission to entry level classes under the Economically Weaker Section and Disadvantaged Group ( EWS/ DG) category for 2018- 19 academic year were declared this month. A total of 25 per cent seats are supposed to be reserved in all schools for the category.
In a circular issued on Monday, the department said, “Private unaided recognised schools are once again directed to ensure and facilitate the admission of the selected candidates of EWS/ DG Category in the respective class without creating any hindrance.”
Listing pointers under the ‘ Not To Do’ category, the circular said that the schools should not ask for Aadhaar number of the children and income certificate from those EWS category parents who submit copy of BPL/ Food Security Card issued by Food and Civil Supply Department.
The education department has also warned schools against demanding any school fees and denying admission to students under the EWS/ DG category either on grounds of distance range or on pretext of minor spelling errors.
The schools have been asked to set up help desks for parents reporting for admission and deal with the parents sympathetically and politely.
“The department is going to constitute teams ( district- wise) to conduct inspection of the private unaided recognised schools for ensuring the admission of Economically Weaker Section/ DG category candidates in accordance with the instructions/ directions issued,” the DoE letter said.
While those belonging to families with annual income less than ` 1 lakh can seek admission under the economically weaker section ( EWS) category, the disadvantaged group ( DG) category applicants include — the SC, ST, OBC, non- creamy layer, physically challenged, orphan and transgender, and all children living with or affected by HIV.