Two Decades of Controversy: How Orchid Primary School Defies Legal Orders and Public Sentiment
By Special CorrespondentPUNE: The ongoing unauthorized operation of Orchid Primary School within Jay Cooperative Housing Society in Pune has emerged as a glaring example of systemic failure and administrative apathy. Despite numerous legal orders and resident complaints spanning over two decades, the school, run by the New Maharashtra Education Trust, continues to function in clear violation of civic and educational norms.
A History Steeped in Irregularities
Established in 2000 as a modest playgroup by Mr. Nasir Akbar Khan, Mrs. Shaheda Nasir Khan, and Mr. Asadullah Musafir Khan, the institution began functioning without necessary approvals from educational and municipal authorities. In 2008, the playgroup was converted into a full-fledged school and brought under the umbrella of the New Maharashtra Education Trust. This transition, however, was not accompanied by the requisite legal permissions.
Over the years, residents of Jay Cooperative Housing Society have lodged multiple complaints highlighting unauthorized construction, misrepresentation in official documents, and the misuse of residential premises for commercial educational purposes. These allegations, supported by structural audit reports, point to significant safety hazards and administrative non-compliance.
Judiciary and Administrative Directives Ignored
The school’s legal history is extensive. In 2007, the Deputy Registrar of Co-operative Societies rejected applications related to unauthorized properties held by the school. This decision was subsequently upheld by the Bombay High Court. Despite these legal setbacks, the school has continued operations, seemingly immune to regulatory action.
A 2008 Memorandum of Understanding between the school’s trustees and society members included a commitment to relocate the institution. However, residents claim that the assurances have proved empty, and the school continues to operate in contempt of judicial directives.
Community Under Duress
The fallout has been severe for the residents of Jay Cooperative Housing Society. Beyond the noise, traffic, and strain on shared infrastructure, several residents allege they have faced harassment and intimidation. Instances of physical altercations and threats reportedly linked to school management have been brought to the attention of local law enforcement, but residents allege that follow-up action has been minimal.
In addition, expert reports warn that the unauthorized structural modifications within residential flats used for classrooms pose risks to both students and residents.
Authorities Aware, Yet Inaction Persists
Despite receiving multiple notices from the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and the School Education and Sports Department, Orchid Primary School continues to operate without impunity. Authorities have acknowledged violations of the National Building Code, the Right to Education Act, and other statutory norms, yet enforcement has remained largely symbolic.
Recent inspections and official reports have confirmed these violations, urging immediate corrective action. Still, residents argue that unless these findings are backed by real-time enforcement, they remain ineffectual.
Urgent Need for Accountability
This case highlights an urgent need for an overhaul in enforcement mechanisms and regulatory follow-through. The continuous operation of an illegal educational institution in a residential complex not only endangers lives but also sets a dangerous precedent for disregard of the law.
The residents of Jay Cooperative Housing Society have called on the Pune Municipal Corporation, education authorities, and the Chief Minister’s Office to take decisive action. Their demand: the relocation of the school, restoration of legal order, and protection of their rights as citizens.
As the saga of Orchid Primary School unfolds, it stands as a testament to the consequences of unchecked violations and the urgent need for systemic accountability in urban governance.
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