The Sajag Nagarik Manch has accused several private schools in Navi Mumbai of commercial profiteering despite receiving land from City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) at nominal rates. In a detailed letter to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, the forum’s coordinator Sudhir Dani has demanded a comprehensive probe into alleged violations of allotment conditions.
According to the forum, CIDCO allotted prime land parcels to educational institutions at token rates such as Re 1 under a “no profit, no loss” principle. However, Dani has alleged that several schools are charging between Rs 1.5 lakh and Rs 2 lakh annually even for kindergarten classes like KG and LKG. Despite collecting substantial fees, some institutions reportedly lack adequate laboratories and library facilities.
The complaint also highlights alleged misuse of playgrounds. As per CIDCO norms, school playgrounds must remain accessible to the public after school hours. The forum claims that several institutions have converted these spaces into commercial turf grounds, restricting public entry and generating private revenue from public land.
Dani has further raised concerns over teacher recruitment practices, alleging a lack of transparency regarding qualifications and eligibility. Teachers are reportedly hired at low salaries, with shortages in subjects such as mathematics and science. It is also claimed that some educators are not issued formal appointment letters, leading to financial and mental exploitation.
“I have also asked for mandatory disclosure of teachers’ academic qualifications on institutional websites. Schools are also asked to publicly disclose fee structures for the past ten years to assess violations of the Fee Regulation Act,” said dani
In his letter, Dani stated, “In the era of corruption-free governance, the education sector has become the most corrupt. With low investment and guaranteed long-term profits, educational institutions have turned into profit-driven enterprises. Backed by political patronage, their arbitrary functioning has crushed parents and students.”
Copies of the complaint have been sent to senior state officials, including the Education Minister, Principal Secretary (Education), Navi Mumbai Municipal Commissioner and CIDCO’s Managing Director.
Source: The Free Press Journal
