Introduction:

In a recent ruling, the Madras High Court addressed the issue of a minority school’s discretion to operate with just two students and the state’s authority to decline public grants to such institutions. The case involves two teachers from a minority school managed by the CSI Diocese of Tirunelveli, whose salaries were declined by the Education Department when the school operated with only two students despite government instructions.

Arguments:

The teachers challenged the Education Department’s decision, arguing that the state could not deprive them of their salaries. The state contended that the school management disregarded government instructions despite advice, and therefore, the state had the right to decline grants to such institutions. The court considered the balance between the minority institution’s autonomy and compliance with government directives, emphasizing that institutions should not operate contrary to lawful instructions.

Court’s Judgement:

The Madras High Court upheld the state’s authority to decline grants to minority schools that operate against government instructions. While acknowledging the school’s autonomy, the court emphasized the importance of compliance with lawful directives, especially when public funds are involved. The court set aside the order directing salary payment to the teachers, affirming the state’s decision to reject the grant.