PSAJK Accused of Shielding Schools, Ignoring Ground Reality of Parents’ Burden

Srinagar, April 13: 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.
​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.