Shimla, Dec 4,
In a recent judgment, the Himachal Pradesh High Court dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the merger of Government Middle School, Machrana, with Government Senior Secondary School, Dargi. The PIL, filed by Jagdish Chand, sought to quash a notification issued on August 17, 2024, that authorized the merger of the two institutions.
Background of the merger
The state government decided to merge the schools due to the declining student enrollment at Government Middle School, Machrana. According to official records, the school had only five students enrolled. The staff at the middle school—comprising two Trained Graduate Teachers (TGTs), one Physical Education Teacher (PET), a peon, and a Mid-Day Meal worker—were reassigned to Government Senior Secondary School, Dargi. The two schools are separated by a distance of only three kilometers, which was a significant factor in the government’s decision to proceed with the merger.
Court’s Observations and Ruling
A division bench of Acting Chief Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan and Justice Satyen Vaidya presided over the case. After reviewing the facts, the court concluded that the merger was both practical and reasonable. The bench highlighted that maintaining a school for only five students was not a judicious use of resources, especially when another well-equipped school was located within a short distance.
The court stated, “Given the small number of students and the proximity of Government Senior Secondary School, Dargi, there is no justification to interfere with the government’s decision.” Consequently, the PIL was dismissed, along with any pending applications.
The judgment underscores the importance of resource optimization in the education sector. It also sets a precedent for similar cases where declining student numbers necessitate structural changes in the school system.
This decision aligns with the government’s broader policy of consolidating educational institutions to ensure better utilization of resources and improve the quality of education for students.
Empower Independent Journalism – Join Us Today!
Dear Reader,
We’re committed to unbiased, in-depth journalism that uncovers truth and gives voice to the unheard. To sustain our mission, we need your help. Your contribution, no matter the size, fuels our research, reporting, and impact.
Stand with us in preserving independent journalism’s integrity and transparency. Support free press, diverse perspectives, and informed democracy.
Click [here] to join and be part of this vital endeavour.
Thank you for valuing independent journalism.
Warmly,
Vishal Sarin, Editor
