The Delhi High Court on Wednesday came down heavily on Delhi Public School, Dwarka, for subjecting students to discriminatory treatment after their parents failed to pay school fees on time.

Justice Sachin Datta took strong exception to the school's conduct, citing an inspection report led by the District Magistrate. The report revealed that students were made to sit in the library, denied access to the school canteen, and barred from interacting with their peers—all due to pending fees.

“There can be no justification for harassing students in this manner to recover outstanding dues,” the court observed, restraining the school from employing such measures.

The judge emphasized that any issues related to non-payment or partial payment of fees must be resolved strictly in accordance with the Delhi School Education Act, 1973, and its associated rules—not by discriminating against or humiliating students. “This Court is unable to countenance such conduct,” he added.

The order came in response to an application filed by the affected students, who detailed the discriminatory actions taken against them.

A report submitted by an eight-member committee—including senior academicians and Directorate of Education officials—described the situation as a serious case of student discrimination based on fee defaults.

Calling the school’s actions “disturbing,” the Court issued clear directions prohibiting the segregation of students, restriction from classes, or any form of prejudice linked to fee disputes. The school has also been instructed to allocate appropriate sections to promoted students without letting fee-related disagreements interfere with their academic progress.

Justice Datta further directed government authorities to conduct regular inspections of the school to ensure compliance with the Court's orders.

The matter is scheduled for the next hearing on May 5.