The Delhi Directorate of Education (DoE) has mandated that no private unaided recognized school can compel parents to pay fees for more than one month in a single installment. This order, issued on Friday, responds to numerous complaints from parents about schools requiring bimonthly or quarterly payments, which can impose significant financial burdens, particularly on low and middle-income families. The DoE highlighted that such practices contradict the goals of equitable access to education and violate previous court directives. The order also reaffirms a 2019 circular that mandated monthly fee collection following a 2013 High Court ruling. While schools can allow parents to pay for multiple months if they choose, they cannot make it a condition for enrollment or access to services. Schools are required to display this order publicly and face potential penalties under the Delhi School Education Act, 1973 for non-compliance. Parents and school principals have expressed support for the order, emphasizing the need for effective enforcement to ensure adherence.