The Delhi High Court has censured Delhi Public School (DPS), Dwarka, for deploying "bouncers" in the course of a dispute over unpaid fees, terming such actions as causing mental harassment and affecting student’s psychological well-being and self-worth. The Court condemned the coercive methods employed by the school, observing that such practices are inconsistent with the principles and purpose of education.
The matter arose after DPS Dwarka suspended 31 students over non-payment of revised fees. On May 14, 2025, the school reportedly deployed increased security, including female bouncers, citing concerns over protests and threats. Parents alleged that local authorities refused to intervene, stating the issue was sub-judice. The dispute followed an earlier directive issued by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) on July 18, 2024, directing police to register an FIR against the school for alleged expulsion of students, public posting of names, and an incident involving a female student being denied help during menstruation. The High Court stayed this directive on July 30.
Parents challenged the suspension of students, alleging discrimination and asserting that removals were executed without prior notice. They accused the school of violating court orders and fundamental principles of justice, and of withholding important documents. It was also alleged that some students, including those in Class X, were confined in a bus for two hours before being sent home. The school defended its position by stating that it had repeatedly informed parents of pending dues and cited financial strain. It justified the use of security personnel on grounds of ongoing protests and the possibility of student abduction.
The Court remarked that actions such as deploying bouncers amounted to "mental harassment" and harmed children’s psychological well-being and self-worth. It emphasised that schools must not function purely as commercial enterprises and stated that Schools are not commercial establishments but institutions imparting education and promoting public welfare.
The Court further stated that any step that fosters fear, humiliation and exclusion is in direct conflict with the very idea of education.
During the hearing, DPS Dwarka informed the Court that it had withdrawn its decision to suspend the 31 students. Justice Sachin Datta noted the submission but underscored the importance of protecting student’s dignity and welfare. He urged both the school and parents to work together in the best interests of the students. In an earlier proceeding, Justice Vikas Mahajan had directed that removed students be readmitted upon payment of 50 per cent of the revised fees for 2024–25 and future academic years. The Court also remarked that the school principal could face criminal prosecution for the alleged mistreatment of students.
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