Surat: The District Education Officer has taken action against seven private schools in the city after finding evidence that students admitted under the Right to Education (RTE) Act were being segregated and treated unfairly. These schools have been served notices and fined ₹10,000 each for discriminatory practices.

According to officials, the complaints—received through the SWAGAT Grievance Portal—alleged that RTE students were being seated in separate classrooms. In one instance at Gyan Ganga School (Ved Road), students admitted under RTE were also reportedly forced to buy school stationery and uniforms.

Following direct instructions from Gandhinagar, a team from the District Education Office conducted surprise inspections at all seven schools. The inquiry confirmed preliminary evidence of irregularities and discrimination, leading to the immediate issuance of notices.

The department has ordered each school to deposit the ₹10,000 penalty within a day, warning that failure to do so will result in strict legal action.

Officials emphasized that providing equal education, facilities, and treatment to RTE students is a legal obligation, and any violation will invite severe consequences.

Notices and fines of ₹10,000 each were issued to the following seven schools:

1. Broadway International School, Althan

2. Ashadeep Vidyalaya, Seemadanaka, Nana Varachha

3. L.P. Savani Academy

4. Madhavbagh Vidhyabhavan, Amroli

5. Gyan Ganga Vidyalaya, Ved Road

6. Ryan International School, Rundh Magdalla

7. Seven International School, Palanpur