The Delhi Assembly has rolled out a landmark reform in the education sector by passing the Delhi School Education (Transparency in Fee Fixation and Regulation) Act, 2025 during its Monsoon Session. Introduced by Education Minister Ashish Sood and approved by Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena, the Act promises to transform how private schools in the capital manage and justify their fees.
For years, parents have voiced frustration over sudden and steep fee hikes, with some schools raising charges by as much as 30 to 45 percent without explanation. This new law intends to put an end to such practices and bring relief to families across Delhi.
Key Highlights of the Delhi School Education Act 2025
The Act brings several crucial changes aimed at creating transparency and accountability in the functioning of private unaided schools:
- Mandatory Government Approval for Fee Hikes
Schools cannot increase fees at will. Any proposed hike must first be cleared by the Delhi government, ensuring parents are not burdened with unjustified costs. - Inclusive Fee Regulation Committees
Each school will set up a committee to decide fee structures. These committees will include school management, teachers, parents, women representatives, and members from disadvantaged communities, ensuring a balanced and fair decision-making process. - Fee Stability for Three Years
Once fees are fixed, they will remain unchanged for three academic years, bringing much-needed predictability and relief for parents. - Grievance Redressal at District Level
District committees led by senior education officials will handle complaints related to fee disputes, ensuring quick and fair resolutions. - Appeal Mechanism
Parents or schools unhappy with district-level decisions can escalate the issue to a higher review committee. - Full Fee Disclosure
Schools must publicly display approved fee details in Hindi, English, and regional languages on notice boards and websites, allowing parents access to clear and accurate information. - Strict Penalties for Violations
Schools found charging unlawful or exorbitant fees will face heavy financial penalties, discouraging exploitation of families.
Why This Reform Matters
For decades, parents in Delhi have demanded greater transparency in private school fees, as existing regulations under the Delhi School Education Act, 1973 applied to only about 300 schools. This left the majority of private institutions outside government oversight. The new Act broadens coverage to over 1,700 unaided private schools, plugging gaps in the previous legislation and ensuring that fee revisions follow a transparent and accountable process.
By implementing this law, the Delhi government aims to strike a balance between the financial needs of schools and the rights of parents, while creating a fairer, more predictable education ecosystem.
