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The Delhi High Court has upheld the Delhi government's decision to provide financial assistance directly to students from economically weaker sections (EWS) and disadvantaged groups for purchasing school uniforms. The court dismissed a review petition challenging the policy, allowing the government to continue providing money instead of distributing uniforms directly.
The decision was announced after a bench of Justices Subramonium Prasad and Renu Bhatnagar rejected a petition filed by the NGO Justice For All. The organisation had asked the court to reconsider its earlier January 23 judgment supporting the government's policy.
Why Did Delhi High Court Uphold Cash Assistance for EWS Students?
The NGO argued that students from EWS and disadvantaged group categories studying in aided and unaided private schools should receive uniforms directly, rather than money to purchase them. It said the government's approach was inconsistent with the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act.
However, the Delhi government said buying and distributing uniforms to thousands of students would be difficult to manage. Schools also have different uniform designs, colours and requirements, making it challenging to arrange uniforms for every student before the academic session begins.
The government introduced its cash assistance policy in June 2025 to address these difficulties.
What Did the Court Say About the Uniform Policy?
In its October 12 decision, the court said the grounds raised by the NGO were an attempt to argue the case again. It observed that a government policy should not be overturned unless it is seriously arbitrary or unreasonable.
The court also maintained that providing money for uniforms through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) does not violate the RTE Act.
DBT means transferring money directly to the eligible beneficiary's bank account instead of providing the benefit through an intermediary.
How Much Money Will Eligible Students Receive?
Under the Delhi government's policy, eligible students receive financial assistance to purchase their school uniforms. The amount varies according to the applicable policy provisions, with earlier reports citing assistance ranging from Rs 1,250 to Rs 1,700 per student.
The policy applies to eligible EWS and disadvantaged group students admitted to private schools under the relevant provisions. Families should check the applicable government guidelines or contact their school for details about eligibility and payment.
What Does the Decision Mean for Students?
The ruling allows the Delhi government to continue providing uniform assistance through direct cash transfers rather than supplying stitched uniforms.
The government has argued that this approach can help students arrange their uniforms on time, while avoiding the difficulties of measuring students, procuring fabric, arranging tailoring and distributing uniforms across schools.
The court's decision maintains the existing policy and does not require the government to return to direct uniform distribution.
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