ZP, TP to also help implement RTE Act

From now on, Zilla Panchayats (ZPs) and Taluk Panchayats (TPs) will also have the power to oversee the implementation of the Right To Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act in the State.

At the district level, the Standing Committee on Education and Health of the ZP, along with urban local bodies (in city corporation limits), has been vested with the authority to help implement the Act. At the taluk level, the Social Justice Committee of the TP has been authorised to do the same.

In a letter a week ago, I F Magi, Special Officer and Ex-Officio Under Secretary to Government, Education Department (Planning), gave the said power to the local authorities.

Ensuring free education, monitoring admission, attendance and completion of elementary education within the respective jurisdiction, maintaining records of children up to the age of 14 years, etc, will be some of the responsibilities these local authorities would have to discharge under the RTE Act.

At the same time, the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) will continue to be the main agency to oversee the said activities. Block Education Officers (BEOs) and School Development and Monitoring Committee (SDMCs) will continue to ensure implementation of the RTE Act.

In addition, ZPs and TPs will also be responsible for redressing grievances related to the Act. They have been assigned the responsibility under Section 32 (1) of the RTE Act, which provides for such an arrangement.