BMC has ordered 164 unrecognised schools in Mumbai to shut before the next academic year, citing failure to meet required standards. Authorities said students will be shifted to nearby schools. While numbers have dropped over years, activists warn closures could affect access to affordable education.

Mumbai: In a major crackdown, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has released a list of 164 schools operating without official recognition from the civic body or the state administration, directing them to shut down before the next academic year begins.

Students to Be Accommodated in Nearby Schools

In a notice published by the BMC, authorities stated, “All the students are to be accommodated in the schools in the vicinity, while the civic authorities will make sure that the students are enrolled in the nearby Mumbai Public Schools as well.” The move aims to ensure that students are not left without access to education despite the closures.

Civic officials emphasised that unrecognised schools fail to meet mandated standards. “When there is no recognition, the quality of the schools or the infrastructure is not as per the mandated standards. If an untoward incident occurs in the school, then the administration does not have official records of the school to take action,” said a civic official.