Karnataka Private Schools Overcharged Students Rs 345 Crore During COVID-19, CAG Report Reveals

The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has highlighted significant issues in Karnataka's education and health sectors. According to a report presented in the Legislative Assembly, private schools in the state overcharged students by Rs 345.80 crore during the 2020-21 COVID-19 pandemic period. This action was in direct violation of court orders, and the government was criticised for its lack of fee regulation.

Fee Regulation Concerns

The CAG report on primary educational institutions pointed out that the Department of School Education and Literacy lacks a mechanism to oversee fees collected by private unaided schools. This absence of oversight has led to breaches in fee regulations. The report also criticised the government for not including online schools within a regulatory framework, which it believes contributes to inequality and division among students.

Health Sector Delays

In another report focusing on health, the CAG revealed that COVID-19 drugs valued at Rs 17.79 crore were not delivered to the government by March 2022. The government had ordered drugs worth Rs 665 crore, but there were delays ranging from one to 252 days in supplying drugs worth Rs 415 crore. Additionally, there was a delay of up to 217 days in delivering equipment valued at Rs 288 crore.

The audit further noted that it did not receive supply details for equipment worth Rs 405 crore. These findings underscore significant inefficiencies in both the education and health sectors, highlighting areas where government oversight and regulation need improvement.