Supreme Court Calls RTE 25% Quota a Tool for Social Equality and Fraternity

The Supreme Court held that effective implementation of the 25% admission mandate under Section 12 of the RTE Act, 2009 can advance fraternity, equality and social justice through common schooling.

The ruling arose from an appeal challenging a Bombay High Court order that denied admission under the RTE quota, where individual relief had become infructuous due to the passage of time.

Examining the broader issue, the Court observed that the RTE framework envisages children from all classes, castes, and economic backgrounds studying together in neighbourhood schools. 

The Court issued directions for strict implementation of Section 12(1)(c), which it will continue to monitor.

[Dinesh Biwaji Ashtikar v. State of Maharashtra & Ors.]