Supreme Court: States & Schools Must Ensure 25% RTE Admission

Jan 14, 2026 - The Supreme Court has clarified the interpretation of Section 12(1)(c) of the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009, saying it is the Constitutional responsibility of State governments and local authorities to ensure admission of children from economically weaker and disadvantaged sections into nearby schools. The Court further emphasised that schools are equally bound to mandatorily admit 25% of students under the RTE Act and Article 21A of the Constitution.

A Bench comprising Justice PS Narasimha and Justice AS Chandurkar was hearing a case related to RTE admissions originating from the Bombay High Court, where guidelines on the admission process under the Act were sought. During the hearing, the Supreme Court accepted the suggestions and guidelines proposed by Amicus Curiae Senior Advocate Senthil Jagadeesan and Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati.

The Court observed that the obligation under Section 12 of the RTE Act to admit up to 25% children from disadvantaged and weaker sections has an extraordinary capacity to transform the social structure of society. If implemented honestly and effectively, it can bring about real and meaningful change.

Calling it a national mission, the Supreme Court ruled that State Governments and local authorities must collectively ensure that no eligible child is deprived of education. The Court also directed that special efforts be made to provide easy access to Courts and effective relief for parents who complain of being denied their rights under the RTE Act.

Source: Media Reports

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