Parents and students of Neerja Modi School in Jaipur recently held a peaceful sit-in, demanding the immediate restoration of the school’s Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) affiliation. This protest followed CBSE’s decision to cancel the school’s affiliation due to severe safety norm violations. The move impacts approximately 5,500 students mid-academic session, casting uncertainty over their educational future.
Affiliation Cancellation Details
The Central Board of Secondary Education cancelled Neerja Modi School’s affiliation on Tuesday . This action followed a 9-year-old Class 4 student’s alleged suicide on November 1 , jumping from the school’s fourth floor. CBSE cited “gross violation” of student safety norms and by-laws after an inspection revealed multiple lapses. The board declared the school liable for the “severest” of penalties, stating students could not continue studying in an unsafe environment.
Inquiry Panel Findings
An inquiry panel, formed by CBSE, investigated the student’s death. Its findings highlighted persistent bullying faced by the girl. Her parents first reported this issue to teachers in July 2024 . The panel observed the class teacher failed to act on the girl’s distress, even when approached five times in the final 45 minutes of her life.
Impact on Students and Academic Session
The cancellation plunged the academic future of nearly 5,500 students into uncertainty. Protesters emphasized the significant disruption to their education, occurring midway through the academic calendar. This timing adversely affects examination preparation, regular studies, mental well-being, and academic continuity. Parents also voiced concerns about students adapting to new academic systems and environments, placing additional pressure on them.
Parents Voice Concerns
Parents strongly criticized CBSE’s decision. Anup Agarwal, a parent, stated the cancellation directly impacts thousands of students. He suggested financial penalties or increased security safeguards instead. Agarwal referenced student suicides at IITs and IIMs, noting affiliation was not cancelled there. Another parent, Shyamali Singh, acknowledged the incident but questioned the fallout on students. “What is the fault of our students?” Singh asked. She added that while the school might be affected, the children would suffer. Singh highlighted that students attending private coaching already face bullying, asserting, “Punishment has been given to students and parents.”
Call for Review and Assurance
Parents demanded CBSE urgently review and reverse its decision. They requested written assurance regarding any alternative schools for relocation. This assurance must confirm these schools meet all prescribed safety and academic norms. Parents urged the board to restore Neerja Modi School’s affiliation to safeguard uninterrupted education for all affected students.