Delhi Approves Landmark Bill to Regulate School Fees Across 1,677 Institutions

In a move poised to bring relief to thousands of parents, the Delhi government has approved the Delhi School Education Transparency in Fixation and Regulation of Fees 2025 Bill. The draft legislation, passed during a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, aims to regulate and standardise the fee structure in all 1,677 schools across the capital—including private, aided, and unaided institutions.

Addressing the media, Chief Minister Gupta termed the decision “historic and brave,” stating that for the first time, a “foolproof” framework would be established to bring fee transparency across all types of schools in Delhi. “There was no prior mechanism to regulate fee hikes. This Bill will ensure a clear guideline and procedure that schools must follow,” she said.

The development comes amid a rising number of complaints from parents regarding steep and unexplained fee hikes. The Chief Minister also highlighted growing concerns about alleged student harassment in the name of unpaid or increased fees.

To implement the new regulations, Education Minister Ashish Sood announced the formation of a three-tier committee system. These panels will be responsible for reviewing and approving fee structures every three years, factoring in a school’s infrastructure, facilities, and resources.

In a notable step towards inclusive governance, the committees will include three teachers and five parents, selected through a draw of lots. These members will collaboratively determine the permissible fee slabs, thereby ensuring both transparency and stakeholder participation.

Advertisement

The government’s move is also part of a broader crackdown on schools accused of imposing arbitrary and excessive fees. Education officials confirmed that investigations are underway and that regulatory action will follow wherever needed.

As part of its education reform efforts under the National Education Policy 2020, the Delhi government’s focus on equity, accountability, and participatory decision-making marks a significant shift in how school finances are monitored in the national capital.