Supreme Court Rejects Petition Against Admission Restrictions in UP-Rajasthan Schools

The Supreme Court refused to hear a public interest petition challenging the restrictions imposed on outsiders, journalists, YouTubers, and social media users from entering government schools in Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan.

Allegations and Orders in the Petition

This petition was filed under the 'School Theek Karo' campaign of the Kokroach Janata Party, aimed at documenting the status of basic facilities and infrastructure in government schools. The petition stated that documentation of classrooms, buildings, toilets, drinking water, electricity, mid-day meals, and other facilities in public interest should not be stopped due to restrictions imposed for children's safety.

The petition argued that there is a difference between recording identifiable children and documenting the physical condition of government schools. It also emphasized the need to protect children's privacy, dignity, and safety, but a complete ban on documenting schools in the name of these concerns should not be imposed.

The circular issued by the Director of Secondary Education, Rajasthan on August 16, 2026, and the order issued by the District Basic Education Officer, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh on August 19, mandate that outsiders, journalists, YouTubers, and social media-related persons must obtain prior permission from the competent authority to enter school premises. Written permission is also required for photography, videography, interviews, audio recording, and live streaming.

Supreme Court's Stance

The bench of Justice PS Narasimha and Justice Alok Aradhe refused to hear the petition.

The court declined to admit the petition, stating that no hearing would be conducted in this matter. This makes it clear that the restrictions on entry and videography in government schools in UP and Rajasthan will continue.

We are not inclined to consider the writ petition filed under Article 32 of the Constitution of India.

Supreme Court