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Section 2(p) of the RTE Act

Parent

"Parent" means either the father or the mother of the child. Simple and direct.

"Parent" means either the father or the mother of the child. Simple and direct.

Either parent โ€” not necessarily both, not necessarily the father โ€” can exercise the child's RTE rights. A single mother has full authority to file complaints, join the SMC, demand transfer certificates, etc.

Examples
  • A single mother demanding TC from school: acting as "parent"
  • A father demanding admission for his child: acting as "parent"
  • Either parent can file Section 32 complaints

This guide is published by Mahadev Maitri Foundation โ€” free, independent education resource. We help families in rural India understand and enforce their rights under the RTE Act.

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