Arabic school forced to drop plan to admit girls; HC intervenes

Two months ago, when the 350-year-old prestigious Anglo Arabic Senior Secondary School at Ajmeri Gate decided to open its doors to girl students, it was considered a significant move.

Two months ago, when the 350-year-old prestigious Anglo Arabic Senior Secondary School at Ajmeri Gate decided to open its doors to girl students, it was considered a significant move.

HT Image

But the school management soon realised that time was not yet ripe to start co-education as there was stiff opposition from many of its staff and local politicians. The decision has subsequently been revoked.

The issue came to fore before the Delhi High Court when a Muslim girl challenged the denial of admission.

“It is an issue of mindset. They had decided to take in female students, but it seems due to a particular situation prevailing there, they are unable to execute it”, the bench headed by acting chief justice AK Sikri said.

“It was a welcome decision... Unfortunately some staff members created a fear psychosis and discouraged parents from sending their women wards to the school,” said her petition.

School manager Atyab Siddiqui admitted to the problems in introducing co-education.

Justice Sikri has directe the Delhi Government standing counsel Najmi Waziri to take up the issue with the Directorate of Education.