The Supreme Court on Monday sought concrete, district-wise data to examine allegations of non-implementation of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009, in the State of Punjab. The matter was heard by a Bench comprising the Chief Justice of India and Justice V. Mohana.

The Bench was hearing a public interest litigation alleging that the mandate under Article 21A of the Constitution, particularly the requirement of 25% reservation for economically weaker sections, had not been effectively implemented in the State for several years.

Counsel for the petitioner submitted that the Act had not been implemented in Punjab for nearly fifteen years and that admissions under the EWS category were far below the statutory requirement.

“This Act has not been implemented in Punjab for the last 15 years. It is only after approaching the High Court that admissions have started,” counsel submitted.

It was further contended that the number of admissions was significantly lower than required: “As per the figures, nearly two lakh students are admitted at the entry level every year. Twenty-five percent of that comes to about fifty thousand students.”

The Bench, however, emphasised the need for precise and verifiable data before proceeding further.

“You have to assist us. Take at least one district, identify how many schools there are, how many are recognised, how many seats are available, and how many EWS admissions have actually been made,” the Court observed.

Accordingly, the Court directed the petitioner to carry out a structured exercise and place on record district-wise data to assist the Court in adjudicating the issue.