Mumbai civic body flags 164 unauthorized schools, warns parents against enrolling children

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation has released an updated list of 164 unauthorized schools across the city, cautioning parents against enrolling their children in these institutions that largely operate in low-income areas. Officials said over 80,000 students are currently studying in such schools.

According to the civic body, many of these institutions are approved only for Classes 5 to 10 but continue to run primary sections without permission, while some lack recognition altogether.

In a public notice issued on April 17, BMC education officer Sujata Khare said parents should avoid unrecognized schools and instead enroll their children in authorized municipal or private schools in their neighborhoods.

The issue has persisted for several years. A BMC survey conducted in 2023-24 had identified 218 unauthorized schools.

Of these, 48 managements, in coordination with the civic education department, submitted proposals to the state education department in October 2025, seeking approval.

A decision on these applications is still pending. Officials said the current list of 164 schools is based on that survey and is updated periodically.

Most of the flagged institutions are located in Chembur, Mankhurd, Govandi, Malad-Malvani, and Dharavi. Authorities noted that many operate with limited infrastructure, often from chawls or small residential spaces, and cater to a small number of students. Despite meeting local demand, they fall short of prescribed norms.

A trustee associated with one such school said, “Most of us do not have RCC buildings or meet all the criteria required for approval, but we are giving poor children a chance to study in English. We are constantly in touch with the government for an opportunity, but we have not received it yet.”

Civic education committee chairperson Rajeshree Shirwadkar said, “Before taking action, we must think about the students’ education. Follow-up will be done with the government.”

Concerns have also been raised about the quality of education in these institutions due to gaps in infrastructure and the availability of qualified teachers. The Watchdog Foundation has written to the chief minister and the municipal commissioner, urging the introduction of an amnesty scheme to help such schools regularize under the Right to Education Act, 2009.

“Abrupt closure of these institutions may severely disrupt the academic continuity and future prospects of thousands of students,” the foundation said in an email to authorities.