Srinagar, April 13, KNT: Parents have pushed back against the Private Schools’ Association J&K, accusing it of defending private institutions instead of addressing mounting financial pressure on families.
The reaction follows recent remarks by the association cautioning the government against “knee-jerk” actions driven by social media, with parents arguing that such statements deflect from genuine grievances.
Parents say the real issue is not social media narratives but arbitrary fee hikes and unchecked practices by several private schools, which they claim the association has failed to address.
“The association should look within instead of blaming social media. Every time fees are increased, they come out defending schools,” said a parent from Srinagar.
The issue assumes significance as multiple schools have increased fees in recent months, triggering complaints from parents who say there is no effective oversight or accountability.
Parents also criticized the Fee Fixation Committee, alleging that it acts only on complaints rather than proactively monitoring schools.
“The committee is invisible on the ground. It reacts only when pushed, instead of ensuring compliance,” another parent said.
Read: Private schools raise fees despite FFRC rule, J&K govt faces compliance challenge
Several parents highlighted what they described as systematic financial burden beyond tuition fees, pointing to yearly changes in uniforms and additional expenses imposed under various school activities.
“It’s not just fees. Every year we are forced to buy new uniforms. There are three types — winter, summer, and sports. Then come activities — fruit day, cultural day, plant day — each requiring separate spending,” said a parent.
Parents alleged that such practices have become normalized, placing continuous financial strain on families.
They further accused the association of functioning primarily to protect the interests of private schools rather than representing a balanced position.
“This association exists to serve private schools at the cost of helpless parents,” a group of parents told the news agency Kashmir News Trust.
Some parents also alleged that the association attempts to build influence within administrative circles to blunt criticism and avoid stricter regulation.
The growing discontent highlights a widening gap between private school managements and parents, with calls increasing for stronger regulatory intervention and transparent enforcement of rules. [KNT]
