New Delhi (India) February 20:The Maharashtra government said on Thursday it would look into allegations some schools had taken advantage of minority status claims to obtain exemptions by virtue of the Right to Education (RTE) Act, and access the associated privileges.
The inquiry will then focus on the process to grant minority status along with compliance with RTE provisions while ensuring that the scheme's original intent is not watered down. 

8,000 Schools Under Scanner for RTE Loopholes

The free category is not compulsory for minority schools to allocate 25% of seats. Nearly 8,000 schools are now granted minority status in Maharashtra, with 75 schools receiving the grant in one day, it was reported.
Beyond a few selected institutions, Pankaj Bhoyar, Minister of State (school education) indicated, these might have applied mainly for RTE exemptions or similar benefits.
“The chairman of the minority commission has also taken note of the issue. A thorough inquiry will be conducted. If any institution is found misusing minority status for undue benefit, action will be taken, irrespective of its size,” Bhoyar said.

Minister Vows Strict Action on Fake Benefits

The minister said the chairman of the minority commission is seized of the matter and action will be taken against any institution, large or small, accused of taking advantage of the minority tag.
The minister also reacted to accusations made by some schools that some parents had also submitted forged documents to qualify for admission to the free quota.
"If any institution obtained minority status improperly or is using it beyond its intended scope, strict action will be taken," Bhoyar said.

New RTE Rules Fix 1km Eligibility Gaps

That, as well as Bhoyar who promised appropriate measures in this matter, the RTE was brought in to provide quality education to poor and eligible children.
The Maharashtra state recently amended its RTE framework, such as the 1-km eligibility qualification.
Bhoyar said that the changes came after complaints about the previous system’s loopholes allowing ineligible students to obtain admissions that were intended for historically disadvantaged populations. He further stated the government's priority is to ensure transparency and fairness in implementation of education policies.