HC asks why political office-bearers should not be barred from school governing bodies

The High Court has issued a rule asking the government to explain why individuals affiliated with political parties or holding political positions should not be declared ineligible for election, nomination or approval to the governing bodies and managing committees of private educational institutions.

The court also asked why the relevant regulations should not be amended, or new regulations framed, to ensure the inclusion of locally recognised education enthusiasts, retired teachers, respected social workers, freedom fighters, academics, lawyers, physicians and other distinguished citizens in such committees.

In addition, the court sought to know why judicial guidelines should not be issued in this regard.

A High Court bench comprising Justice Ahmed Sohel and Justice Fatema Anwar issued the rule today (20 July) after hearing a public interest writ petition.

Advocates Md Nadir Khan and Md Sohel Rana appeared for the petitioner.

The writ was filed on 7 June by Advocate Md Nadir Khan on behalf of a guardian.

The petition sought amendments to Rule 7 of the Private Educational Institutions Governing Body and Managing Committee Regulations, 2024, or the formulation of a new set of regulations applicable to all education boards.

According to the petition, the inclusion of politically affiliated individuals or political office-bearers in governing bodies and managing committees may undermine the neutrality, accountability and good governance of educational institutions. It argued that the law should ensure the participation of respected, honest and education-minded members of society in these bodies.

Following the order, the petitioner's lawyer said keeping the governing bodies and managing committees of educational institutions free from partisan political influence would strengthen transparency, accountability and good governance in education administration.