Patna: The Patna District Administration, under the leadership of District Magistrate Dr Chandrashekhar Singh, convened a meeting of the district-level coaching registration committee on Tuesday. The meeting, held at the Patna Collectorate, focused on enforcing safety standards and streamlining the registration process for coaching institutes under the Bihar Coaching Institute (Control and Regulation) Act, 2010.
Key Decisions and Directives
- Re-examination of Ineligible Institutes:
- Out of 523 applications for registration, 138 coaching institutes were deemed ineligible after investigation.
- Sub-Divisional Officers (SDOs) have been directed to verify if these institutes are operating illegally despite rejection and to take legal action if necessary.
- Pending Applications:
- Out of the remaining 385 applications, 350 have been investigated, with 247 institutes found ineligible as they were non-operational.
- Notices will be issued to closed coaching institutes, and the investigation of the remaining 35 applications will be expedited.
- Approved Registrations:
- The committee approved the registration of 97 coaching institutes, with registration certificates to be issued promptly.
- Institutes pending fire NOC updates will receive certificates once compliance is ensured.
- Online Portal Development:
- Instructions were given to develop an online portal for the registration of coaching institutes, streamlining the process and ensuring transparency.
Safety Compliance and Inspections
- The District Administration had previously formed seven teams to inspect over 600 coaching institutes across subdivisions and urban areas.
- Reports on safety compliance, including deficiencies, issued notices, and recommended actions, are to be submitted by SDOs in a prescribed format.
Mandatory Safety Standards
Dr Singh emphasised the importance of strict adherence to safety standards, highlighting the joint responsibility of coaching operators, administration, and parents. The following standards are mandatory:
- Valid Registration Certificate:
- No coaching institute can operate without registration. Classrooms must provide at least 1 square metre per student.
- Unobstructed Entry and Exit:
- Building bylaws must be followed to ensure free movement in classrooms.
- Fire Safety Compliance:
- Institutes must adhere to fire safety standards without exception.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
- First Offence: Fine of ₹25,000.
- Second Offence: Fine of ₹1,00,000 and potential registration cancellation.
- Severe Violations: Fine up to ₹10 lakh.
Stakeholder Engagement
A meeting was recently held with coaching institute representatives to address their concerns. Adequate time was granted for compliance. Dr Singh reiterated that student safety remains paramount, and no compromise will be tolerated.
This comprehensive approach by the Patna District Administration aims to ensure a secure and regulated environment for students while holding coaching institutes accountable to the highest standards.
