Maharashtra: Over 5,000 Schools to Remain Shut for Two Days Amid Teachers’ Protest

Nearly 5,000 partially aided private schools across Maharashtra will remain closed for two days—July 8 and 9—as teachers stage a protest demanding the release of long-pending phased grants from the state government.

The closure affects a significant number of institutions, as there are approximately 5,844 partially aided private schools in the state. The decision to temporarily shut down these schools was made in solidarity with the ongoing sit-in protest being held at Azad Maidan in Mumbai.

In October 2024, the Maharashtra government announced a decision to extend phased grants to around 5,000 previously unaided schools. A Government Resolution (GR) followed, outlining the framework for disbursement of these grants.

However, despite the policy approval, the actual release of funds has been delayed, prompting widespread discontent among educators and school managements. As a result, teachers from the affected schools have taken to the streets once again to press for their financial rights.

The protesting teachers are demanding the immediate implementation of the phased grant decision and the release of necessary funds to ensure smooth functioning of the schools. According to protest organizers, the two-day shutdown is a symbolic protest, but further agitation may follow if their demands continue to be ignored.