Gujarat HC Steps In After Class 9 Student With Cerebral Palsy Alleges Admission Denial

The Gujarat High Court has directed the District Education Officer (DEO) to visit St. Xavier's School in Gandhinagar and assess what alternative arrangements can be made for a Class 9 student with cerebral palsy after a petition alleged that he had been denied admission.

The petition states that the student, who studied in a government school until Class 8, is seeking admission to St. Xavier's School to continue his education in the Gujarati medium.

According to the petition, the school refused admission because the classroom is located on the first floor, creating accessibility issues for the student. It was submitted before the court that the school building is one-storeyed, while the classroom sought by the student is on the first floor.

The school informed the High Court that the student's father had not participated in the admission process.

During the hearing, the High Court observed that the matter was sensitive and remarked that government authorities should work together to explore arrangements such as wheelchair access or other suitable facilities for the child.

The petitioner also argued that similar accessibility measures should be provided in every school across Gujarat.

Justice Nikhil Kariel directed the government to ensure that the local government officer visits the school and examines what arrangements can be made to enable the student to attend classes.

Court Directions

The High Court directed the following:

• The District Education Officer (DEO) must visit St. Xavier's School on July 7.
• The DEO must assess the arrangements required to enable the student's admission and attendance.
• The matter has been adjourned for further hearing on July 8.

The state government submitted that efforts would be made, in coordination with the school board and local government officials, to address the issue and find a solution.