The Maharashtra government has drafted new regulations for private coaching centers, aiming to protect students. The proposed 'Maharashtra Private Coaching Centres (Registration and Regulation) Act 2026' seeks to introduce limits on fees, enforce safety standards, and address student welfare.
The draft legislation covers essential aspects like registration requirements, class hours, fee structures, and student safety. It also includes provisions for student counseling and mental health support.
Key Regulations Proposed
Under the draft act, coaching centers with over 25 students will be required to register. Existing centers will have a six-month window to comply with these new registration rules. Each brand will need separate registration, valid for three years.
Class duration is capped at five hours per day. Sessions are prohibited during very early or late hours. Students and tutors are entitled to one day off weekly. Conducting tests immediately after the weekly day off is discouraged.
The law explicitly bans coaching centers from enrolling children under 13 years of age. Furthermore, centers are prohibited from making false promises regarding student ranks or marks. Information on exam difficulty and intensity must be disclosed to students before admission.
Fee and Safety Standards
Mandatory receipts for all fees will be issued. Fees cannot be increased during a course. Students withdrawing mid-course are entitled to a pro-rata refund within 10 days, including hostel and mess charges if applicable.
Safety and infrastructure norms include a minimum of one square meter of space per student. Adequate ventilation, lighting, and drinking water are required. Separate toilets for students and staff, along with first-aid facilities and parking, are mandated.
Coaching centers must obtain fire and building safety certificates. Operations from basements are forbidden. CCTV footage must be retained for at least one month.
Mental Health and Operations
Coaching centers must establish counseling systems. Promoting life skills and providing immediate assistance to students in distress are also key requirements. Details of counselors and psychologists must be shared with students and parents.
The draft law prohibits segregating students into batches based on their marks. This practice is cited as a contributor to pressure and negative mental health impacts. Centers are encouraged to promote aptitude tests and explore alternative career paths.
Coaching centers cannot operate from school premises. Employing teachers from recognized schools or junior colleges is also restricted.
Grievance Redressal and Penalties
Complaints related to the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POSCO) Act or workplace sexual harassment laws require action within 24 hours. Suspected offenses under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita must be reported to local police.
Violations carry significant penalties. Minor offenses can result in fines ranging from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 5 lakh. Major violations may lead to fines of Rs 10 lakh to Rs 50 lakh, with the possibility of registration suspension or cancellation.
Status of the Draft Law
The draft regulations are currently open for public objections and suggestions. The school education and sports department will consider feedback before the law is finalized. If approved, the act will take effect across Maharashtra on a date to be notified by the state government.
This proposed legislation comes amid increasing concerns about the unregulated coaching sector, including recent incidents like the NEET paper leak.
