‘Fire safety compromised’: MCD halts recognition of private schools, calls for inquiry

In a letter, MCD Mayor Raja Iqbal Singh said that they were informed by Education Committee Chairman Yogesh Verma flagging concerns over the way in which private schools get recognition from the Education Department.

“Various Councillors also met me in this regard and apprised me of the building structure of the schools which in turn affects the fire safety norms and also the life of the tiny tots going to schools. It is, therefore, desired that the recognition be put on hold till the report is submitted. The Director (Education) may also be directed to provide relevant documents to the Chairman (Education Committee) if required to complete the inquiry,” the Mayor’s letter reads.

Verma has pointed out that defying the norm, a total 95 schools were given recognition from 2022 till 2025 by the Education Department without the presence of the education committee.

It is the prerogative of the Education Committee to give a go-ahead to the primary schools of Delhi as they are affiliated to MCD, Verma added.

“We have received complaints about the schools which were recognised without being vetted by the committee and how they have compromised the fire safety No Objection Certificate (NOC)” Verma said, adding that the team will do a spot check and suspend schools if any violation is being detected.