Right to Education does not include right to choose school: Delhi High Court

Why in news

The Delhi High Court dismissed a mother's appeal seeking a specific private school for her child under the EWS category, ruling that the RTE Act does not grant a right to choose a particular school.

Background

The Delhi High Court ruled that the Right to Education (RTE) Act's objective is social inclusion and removing caste barriers. The court held that the right to education does not include a right to select a specific school over others.

Facts for Prelims

• FactEWS category: Economically Weaker Section provision under the RTE Act for private school admissions.
• Act / BillRight to Education (RTE) Act: Legislation aimed at ensuring free and compulsory education and social inclusion.

For Mains

Q. Discuss how the Right to Education Act serves as a tool for social engineering and the removal of caste-based barriers in the Indian education system.

Dimensions to cover in your answer

• Social inclusion vs. individual choice: Balancing parental preference with the state's goal of creating a common educational space.
• Institutional equity: Addressing the risk of private schools becoming segregated spaces based on socio-economic status.

Keywords: Social Inclusion · Right to Education · EWS Category · Caste Barriers · Judicial Interpretation

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