RTE ‘Neighbourhood School’ Norm Cannot be Rigidly Interpreted: Kerala High Court

The Kerala High Court has upheld the shifting and consolidation of certain primary school classes in Lakshadweep, ruling that the Right to Education (RTE) requirement of having schools within “walking distance” cannot be interpreted rigidly.

The Court observed that the term “neighbourhood” must be understood contextually, taking into account geographical and local realities, especially in island territories.

Since the Central RTE Rules, 2010, do not precisely define “neighbourhood” or “walking distance,” appropriate authorities are permitted flexibility in implementation.

Holding that the administrative decision did not violate Section 6 of the RTE Act or Article 21A of the Constitution, the Court dismissed the students’ petitions.