The Gujarat High Court has set aside a 2015 order cancelling the recognition of Holy Child English Medium School and Sugnabai Hindi Medium Primary School in Bapunagar, clearing the way for the institutions run by Sugnabai Education Trust to reopen. The verdict by Justice Nirzar S. Desai brings an end to a two-decade-long legal battle for schools that once catered to over 1,500 students.
Why the court intervened
Justice Desai observed that judicial orders cannot be followed “selectively” and dismissed the state’s claim that the Trust had waived its right to object by participating in the inquiry. The court also found that the inquiry report violated Rule 109 of the Primary Education Rules, as it merely recorded facts without formally recommending withdrawal of recognition.
Background: 2004 scandal
The case dates back to 2004, when a scandal involving 39 dummy teachers and alleged financial irregularities led to the cancellation of recognition and criminal cases against trustees Shashibala Sharma, Murlidhar Sharma, Hemangini Sharma, and vice-principal Madhubala Mehta. A trial court later convicted three individuals, including a dummy teacher and the vice-principal, in connection with exam paper evaluation irregularities.
What lies ahead
The District Education Officer has indicated that recognition may be restored if the Trust meets current norms. The court also clarified that a prolonged trial should not permanently prevent the schools from functioning.