Course correction: Catholic body seeks change in education Act

Karakombil said the inclusion of a local elected representative will “violate the constitutional rights granted to the minorities”.

“Our constitution gives minorities the right to establish and administer an institution of their choice. However,if a management committee is formed as mentioned in the clause,the owner or management of school loses the right to administer. This is violation of minority rights.”

There are nearly 30,000 catholic educational institutions in the country and 45-50 in Delhi.

“We are asking the government to amend this particular clause so that minority-run educational institutes are exempted,” Karakombil said.

The CBCI has also met HRD Minister Kapil Sibal and Minister for Minority Affairs Salman Khursheed. “Sibal had promised to bring in the amendment but nothing has been done so far. If they fail,we will have no other option but to challenge this in the court of law,” the spokesperson said.

The Act,which was notified this year,makes it mandatory for every child in the age group of 6-14 to get elementary education. “Rules are yet to be framed to enforce the Act. We will wait and then take appropriate measures.”

“Political interference in educational institutions has to be reduced. It is not a welcome thing,” Karakombil added.