The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has taken a firm stance against dummy schools, warning that Class 12 students enrolled in such institutions may be barred from appearing for board exams. Officials clarified that both students and parents are responsible for ensuring regular school attendance, and non-compliance could lead to serious consequences.
The issue gained attention after a student from SGN Public School, Nangloi, became a JEE (Mains) topper despite attending a dummy school. Following an investigation, CBSE disaffiliated the school due to multiple infractions, including enrolling non-attending students.
Legal Action Against Dummy Schools
The Delhi High Court intervened in the matter, calling the operation of dummy schools a “fraud” and instructing CBSE and the Delhi government to take immediate action. On January 27, 2025, a bench led by Chief Justice D.K. Upadhyaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela directed authorities to enforce attendance standards. The court criticized the trend of students enrolling in schools only for board exam eligibility while primarily attending coaching centres.
CBSE’s Nationwide Crackdown
CBSE has already taken action against more than 300 dummy schools across India, reinforcing the importance of regular schooling. The board stressed that the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 promotes holistic learning, which is undermined when students bypass conventional schooling for coaching centres.
While CBSE intensifies its crackdown, the Delhi government has downplayed the issue, arguing that there is no official definition of “dummy schools.” However, the High Court has demanded a detailed affidavit from CBSE and state authorities outlining measures to prevent fake admissions and ensure students receive a complete educational experience.
Implications for Students and Parents
With board exams approaching, CBSE’s warning highlights the importance of regular attendance. Students and parents are urged to comply with school attendance rules to avoid penalties, including disqualification from board exams.
