Karnal: Argument over a new admissions form provision that absolves schools of liability for accidents

Following the sad Mahendragarh accident last week that claimed the lives of six pupils, a few private schools amended their admission forms to exclude any liability for accidents that may have happened while students were being transported.

In accordance with the provision, parents must state that the school disclaims all liability for any accidents that may arise while being transported to and from the school. “I will not hold the school administration accountable for any accident that happens when pupils are being transported. An entrance form states, “Whether traveling to or returning from school, it is entirely at my own risk and responsibility.”

The provision has caused controversy in the district; parents have questioned responsibility and the safety of the youngsters, bringing up the matter with the administration. They have insisted that these kinds of schools be subject to consequences.

Some schools have implemented a new requirement that parents fulfill, in violation of the New Education Policy. We call for strong action against these institutions,” local Anshul Chaudhary said.

According to Abhibhavak Ekta Sangh district president Dinesh Narula, some schools have included a condition requiring parents to make an undertaking, which is against the law and improper, rather than strengthening their procedures. “Schools need to improve their procedures and guarantee the security of their pupils. The school has responsibility for children left on school buses by their parents,” he said.

Deputy Commissioner Uttam Singh directed the District Education Officer (DEO) to submit a report after expressing serious concerns over the situation. Additionally, he gave the DEO instructions to send these schools show-cause letters.

In the meanwhile, no commitment of any type has been made by schools in the entrance form, according to the Sahodaya Schools Complex, an organization of private schools. “I personally spoke with schools around the district after becoming aware of the matter, and none of them acknowledged having requested such an effort. Parents have the right to take legal action against any school that violates this, according to Sahodya Schools Complex President Rajan Lamba.