Education department issues show-cause notice to MLA owned Thane school over Paryushan food advisory
BHAYANDAR: The education department has issued a show-cause notice to Seven Square School in Mira Road, owned by BJP MLA Narendra Mehta, over a controversial advisory asking students not to bring onion, garlic and certain root vegetables in their lunch boxes during the Paryushan period.The notice states that issuing such an advisory could amount to putting mental pressure on students and violate constitutional values as well as provisions of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act.The school has been directed to submit a written explanation within two days.The school had issued the advisory after the Paryushan period began on September 8, asking students not to bring onion, garlic, potatoes, beetroot and other root vegetables in their lunch boxes.
It also stated that such food items would not be available in the school canteen.The advisory drew opposition from various political parties and organisations. Mehta had defended the decision, but the school withdrew the advisory on Thursday evening following the criticism.The notice was issued by Thane Zilla Parishad education officer (secondary) Devidas Mahajan following a complaint submitted by the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS).The education department said students from different castes and religions study at the school and that such an advisory could amount to mental harassment under Sections 13 and 17 of the Right to Education Act, 2009.It also stated that imposing restrictions on food choices on religious grounds could violate the right to free and compulsory education.The notice further said schools are required to treat students of all religions equally under the school code.
It referred to Article 14 of the Constitution, which guarantees equality before the law, and the right to personal liberty.Mahajan directed the school to submit its explanation within two days. Failure to submit a reply, or submission of an unsatisfactory explanation, could lead to administrative action under the Right to Education Act and the Maharashtra Self-financed Schools Act, 2013, the notice said.Civic body complains to deputy education directorMeanwhile, the Mira-Bhayandar Municipal Corporation has also lodged a complaint with the deputy education director over the issue.In a letter, civic education officer Sulabha Vatare sought an inquiry into the matter and appropriate action at the department’s level.You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Mumbai | Silver Rate in Mumbai | Bank Holidays in Mumbai | Public Holidays in Mumbai | Mumbai AQI | Weather in Mumbai | Petrol Price in Mumbai | Diesel Price in Mumbai | CNG Price in Mumbai | LPG Price in MumbaiStay updated with the latest Mumbai news.
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