In a significant ruling, the Chhattisgarh High Court, led by Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Bibhu Datta Guru, expressed deep concern over the recent protests by students across the state, who took to the streets due to a lack of basic educational resources, including textbooks and proper amenities in schools. The court, while hearing a suo moto public interest litigation (WPPIL No. 81 of 2024), emphasized that such situations are unacceptable and directed state authorities to take immediate action to rectify these issues. The case has raised important questions about the accountability of educational institutions and the role of the state in ensuring the right to education.
Background of the Case:
The Chhattisgarh High Court, in a suo moto public interest litigation (WPPIL No. 81 of 2024), addressed concerns over student protests related to the lack of basic amenities and educational resources in institutions across the state. The matter came before the court as an office reference, highlighting the gravity of the situation where students, frustrated with inadequate facilities such as the absence of textbooks, took to the streets in protest.
Legal Issues Involved:
The core legal issues revolved around the failure of educational institutions to provide essential resources such as textbooks and basic amenities necessary for effective learning. The court sought to understand the responsibility of the management of these institutions and the role of the state authorities in ensuring that students have access to basic educational infrastructure.
The students’ protests, prompted by these shortcomings, raised questions about the accountability of educational institutions and the state’s duty to safeguard students’ rights to a conducive learning environment under Article 21A of the Constitution of India (Right to Education).
Court’s Observations and Decision:
In its order dated October 1, 2024, the court expressed deep concern over the students’ plight. The bench found it disturbing that students had been compelled to leave the classrooms and come onto the streets to protest for basic educational necessities. Quoting the court’s significant observation:
“We failed to understand what the management of the institution is doing and why students are being allowed to come on the road to protest.”
The court directed the Chief Secretary of Chhattisgarh to investigate the situation and submit an affidavit by the next hearing date on October 7, 2024. The court emphasized that such incidents should not be repeated in the future, urging that, if necessary, parents and students must directly approach the concerned authorities with their grievances instead of resorting to protests.
The order calls for accountability, stating that any irregularities regarding the lack of basic amenities in educational institutions must be addressed without delay.
The case is titled Suo Moto Public Interest Litigation vs. State of Chhattisgarh. The State was represented by Advocate General Mr. Prafull N. Bharat, assisted by Deputy Advocate General Mr. Shashank Thakur. The High Court, comprising Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Bibhu Datta Guru, heard the matter.
