Chandigarh:- A delegation led by Kamlesh Banarsi Das (former Mayor of Chandigarh), along with Brij Mohan Meena, Banarsi Das (President of Akhil Bharatiya Bairwa Mahasabha Punjab-Chandigarh), and Udesh Pohal, met with the Chief Secretary of Chandigarh at the Administrative Building in Sector-9.
The delegation stated that the cycle tracks built in Chandigarh at a cost of crores of rupees are a commendable step towards environmental protection, but their real benefit is not reaching economically weaker students. Especially students of classes 11th and 12th have to travel to distant schools due to the centralized admission system, which causes great difficulty for children from SC, ST, OBC, EWS, BPL, labor card holder, orphaned, and single-parent families.
The delegation demanded that such students be provided with free bicycles so that the cycle tracks can be effectively utilized, continuity of education is maintained, and environmental protection receives a real boost. The Chief Secretary appeared positive about this proposal and expressed hope for prompt action.
Along with this, strong objection was raised regarding the shortage of principals and teachers in government schools, on which the Chief Secretary assured that the appointment of principals would be finalized in the DPC meeting to be held next week.
A demand was also made for changes in the Neighborhood School Policy so that local children of Chandigarh, including those from SC, ST, OBC, and EWS categories, can get priority in admissions and are not deprived of education.
Kamlesh Banarsi Das said: “There will be no compromise on education and the future of children. Ensuring the rights, facilities, and opportunities for children from SC, ST, OBC, and EWS categories is our first priority, and the struggle for this will continue.”