Schools must issue TCs within a week of application, says HC

Says any dispute, including fees arrears, must be resolved independently

The Madras High Court has ordered that no school in the State should deny a transfer certificate (TC) to any student on account of any dispute, including the inability of the parents to settle the fees due to the financial strain caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Justice N. Anand Venkatesh stated that those wanting to leave a school must apply for transfer certificates, and such applications must be honoured by the management within a week. Disputes, if any, should be worked out independently as per law. If schools fail to issue TCs within a week, complaints could be made to the jurisdictional Chief Educational Officer, who shall ensure that the certificates are issued. The court would also initiate suo motu contempt proceedings in case of non-compliance, the judge warned.