BSA: Kids sans Aadhaar mustn't be denied admission in schools

Prayagraj: In a significant move to ensure inclusive education, the basic education department has clarified that children without Aadhaar cards will not be denied admission in the academic session 2025-26.

The directive came in response to complaints from parents who reported that some schools were refusing admission to children who reached the eligible age but had not yet completed their Aadhaar enrolment.

Taking note of this, Basic Siksha Adhikari (BSA), Prayagraj, Praveen Kumar Tiwari issued strict instructions to all Block Education Officers (BEOs) to ensure that every child who meets the minimum age requirement is admitted to the appropriate class without any delay.

Further, Tiwari warned that if any school is found denying admission due to absence of Aadhaar, strict departmental action will be taken against the principal or in-charge principal and school staff involved.

"Such practices violate the spirit of the Right to Education and undermine efforts to promote universal schooling," he said.

In addition, under the ongoing School Chalo Abhiyan, the BSA directed all BEOs to ensure 100% enrolment of children in their respective areas in council schools. They have also been instructed to update the details of new enrolments daily on the designated Google Sheet by 4 pm.

This decision reaffirms the govt's commitment to ensuring that every child receives access to education without unnecessary bureaucratic barriers.