In a significant decision, the Supreme Court on Monday dismissed a PIL seeking regulation of private coaching institutes, emphasizing that the primary issue leading to student suicides, particularly in Kota, Rajasthan, is the high expectations set by parents. The bench, led by Justice Sanjiv Khanna, stated, “The problem is of parents and not of coaching institutes.”
Despite acknowledging nearly 24 suicides in Kota this year, the court asserted that coaching institutes were not the root cause. Justice SVN Bhatti remarked, “Suicides are not happening because of the coaching institutes. They happen because the children cannot meet the expectations of their parents. The number of deaths could be much higher.”
The PIL, filed by Mumbai-based doctor Aniruddha Narayan Malpani, contended that coaching institutes exploit students for selfish gains. However, the court suggested approaching the Rajasthan High Court or submitting a representation to the Central government, stating, “How can we direct legislation on this issue.”
Advocate Mohini Priya, representing the petitioner, sought permission to withdraw the petition, indicating an intention to move a representation. The court permitted the withdrawal.
The petition underscored student suicides as a grave human rights concern and criticized the lack of regulatory measures for coaching institutes. While the Rajasthan government introduced bills to control and regulate coaching institutes, the petition argued that the coaching industry prioritizes profit over student well-being.
The court’s decision raises questions about the balance between educational competitiveness and the mental well-being of students.
With inputs from agencies
