Despite Tin-Shed Structures, Schools Performing Well: Delhi Government To High Court

The Delhi government on Wednesday defended several government schools operating in tin-shed structures, telling the Delhi High Court that despite infrastructural limitations, these schools are achieving "excellent" academic results.

The statement came in response to a petition filed by advocate Ashok Agarwal highlighting the conditions of students studying in tin-shed classrooms across the capital. The petition specifically addresses three government institutions: Sarvodaya Kanya Vidyalaya at Kamla Market and two schools in Ashok Nagar.

Regarding the Kamla Market school, the government's affidavit stated that the Directorate of Education has ensured no student is required to attend classes in tin-shed structures. The facility contains 38 permanent classrooms allocated for teaching purposes, with the multipurpose hall having been converted into two additional classrooms.

Administrative functions including offices, staff rooms, and the principal's office have been temporarily relocated to functional tin sheds until permanent construction is completed. "With this arrangement, all academic activities will be conducted in pucca rooms," the government assured in its submission.

Addressing the two Ashok Nagar institutions, authorities defended their operation under tin sheds by citing impressive academic performance. During the 2023-24 academic year, Class X pass rates reached 98.43 percent at the Girls' School (GGSS) and 95.8 percent at the Boys' School (GBSS). These results improved further in 2024-25, with pass rates increasing to 98.75 percent and 100 percent respectively.

The government added that these schools serve 56 differently abled students with support from five special educators. Their affidavit highlighted available facilities including CWSN-friendly toilets, dual desks, green boards, and a central park with plantations to create a supportive learning environment.

Currently, enrollment stands at 473 students at GGSS and 332 students at GBSS. The government argued that relocating students mid-session would significantly disrupt their education, particularly since neighboring schools are already overcrowded with approximately 3,000 students each.

The affidavit further noted that during School Management Committee meetings held in June 2024 and September 2025, parents and community members strongly opposed relocating the schools. Their concerns included safety issues, financial burdens, and inconvenience to children.

Petitioner Ashok Agarwal criticized this position, stating, "This is the first time Delhi has seen a government justifying teaching more than 1,000 students of Classes 6 to 12 entirely in tin-shed classrooms."

The case is scheduled for its next hearing on October 9.