The introduction of new guidelines by the Ministry of Education, restricting coaching centres from enrolling students below the age of 16, has sparked opposition from owners of several institutes. The move, aimed at creating a legal framework and managing the unregulated growth of private coaching centres, is being met with resistance from the Coaching Classes Teachers Federation and Social Forum of Maharashtra.
Voices Against the Guidelines:
Bandopant Bhusar, the founder-president of CCTFM, a state body representing coaching classes, expressed strong disapproval of the conditions imposed by the ministry. Bhusar emphasized the need for immediate withdrawal of certain conditions, arguing that the guidelines were implemented without consulting those directly involved in running coaching classes.
Speaking at a press meet on Monday, Bhusar stated, “Similar guidelines have already been implemented in Bihar, Rajasthan, Goa, and Karnataka. It seems Maharashtra might also follow suit. However, these conditions should have been formulated after taking the opinions of coaching class operators into account. In response to this, we are planning a state-wide protest against the new guidelines.”
Widespread Opposition:
The controversy extends beyond Maharashtra, as other states have also witnessed the implementation of similar guidelines. Owners of coaching institutes are concerned about the potential impact on their operations and have called for a more collaborative approach in formulating regulations that directly affect them.
Recognition Amidst Opposition:
In a seemingly contradictory move, CCTFM presented awards to 33 coaching class teachers from the state during an event in Wardha on Sunday. The awards were given as a recognition of excellence in teaching, highlighting the contributions of educators despite the ongoing disagreement over the new guidelines.
The Road Ahead:
As the disagreement intensifies, the fate of the guidelines remains uncertain. The Centre’s efforts to bring about a legal framework for coaching centres and manage their unregulated growth face resistance from the industry. The potential implementation of these guidelines in Maharashtra and the planned state-wide protest add a layer of complexity to the ongoing debate.
