Phalelung Requires Officials to Enroll Children in Public Schools
Phalelung Rural Municipality of Panchthar has introduced a policy requiring elected representatives, municipal employees, and teachers to enroll their children in community schools.
Municipality Chairperson Veer Bikram Thamsuhang presented the policy during the 11th Rural Assembly, where it was unanimously approved.
Sanctions for Non-Compliance
Under this new policy, if any official, staff member, or teacher enrolls their children in a private school, they will face a reduction in facilities and benefits provided by the municipality.
Purpose Behind the New Rule
According to municipal spokesperson Bharat Khapangi, the move aims to improve the quality of public schools and restore public trust in community education.
Khapangi stated, “There were complaints about poor implementation of previous decisions. That’s why this stricter approach was taken.”
Financial Penalty for Using Private Schools
From now on:
-
A 10% deduction will be applied to the salaries, allowances, and other benefits of those who send their children to private schools.
-
The deducted amount will be deposited into the municipality’s internal revenue account.
-
This provision has been formally legalized through the newly passed ‘Education Act’ from the rural assembly.
Additional Legislation and Budget Highlights
The assembly also approved laws related to:
-
Agriculture
-
Forests and Environment
-
Auction of public goods
For fiscal year 2082–83, the municipality has announced a total budget of Rs. 544,145,701, setting a target to generate Rs. 10 million from internal sources.
Targeted Support for Disadvantaged Students
Ward No. 5 of Phalelung Rural Municipality has allocated a budget for a uniform assistance program targeting:
-
Marginalized
-
Dalit
-
Low-income
-
Minority students within the ward
Model Policy for Responsible Governance
With a clear objective of promoting quality education and ensuring a responsible local administration, this policy by Phalelung Rural Municipality is being recognized as a noteworthy initiative at the local level.
Panchthar