MP pvt schools protest against new govt policies, warn of potential closures

Indore (Team Newsbuddy): Members of the MP Board Private Schools Association staged a protest at Regal Square in Indore on Thursday, expressing strong opposition to the state government’s new policies, which they claim threaten the survival of private schools across Madhya Pradesh. As part of their demonstration, the association symbolically submitted a plea in the form of a letter to the statue of Mahatma Gandhi. In a show of solidarity, all state-board-affiliated private schools remained closed for the day.
The protest underscored multiple grievances, with school owners and educators voicing their frustration over the government’s lack of response despite repeated appeals. One of the key concerns is the new mandate requiring registered lease agreements for school buildings. Many private schools, especially those in rural areas, operate from rented premises without formal lease documentation, making compliance with the policy nearly impossible. Schools in unauthorized colonies also face similar hurdles, further exacerbating the crisis.
Another major issue raised by the association is the drastic reduction in the permissible lifespan of school transport vehicles from five years to just two. School administrators argue that this rule is impractical, as school buses typically travel only 150 to 200 kilometers daily. With new buses costing between Rs 30 to 35 lakh, school owners fear that the financial burden of frequent vehicle replacements will drive up transportation costs, making education unaffordable for many students, particularly in rural areas.
“If these concerns are not addressed, nearly 50% of private schools in the region may be forced to shut down,” warned Subodh Kumar Sharma, President of the MP Board Private Schools Association. He urged the government to reconsider its policies and engage in meaningful dialogue with stakeholders to safeguard the future of education in Madhya Pradesh.
The association is now calling for urgent government intervention to prevent a potential crisis in the state’s private education sector.