Navi Mumbai school denies admission to child of single mother, Smriti Irani raises issue with HRD

A 27-year-old woman on Friday alleged that St Lawrence School of the Ryan group in Vashi, Navi Mumbai denied admission to her seven-year-old son since she's a single mother.

The woman, Sujata Mohite, also posted a video of her conversation with one Saira Kennedy, likely the principal of the St Lawrence School, who is heard saying that she "can't handle kids of single parents".

Saira Kennedy said that it is difficult for the school to handle kids of single parents and hence, she cannot give admission to such children. Sujata is divorced and wanted her son's admission to St Lawrence School.

Speaking to India Today TV, Sujata said, "I have heard about the school and it has a good reputation. A month ago, my son and I went for an interview for his admission. They told us that we both passed the interview and then asked me about the child's father? I told them that I am divorced and I am capable to look after my child. They later tell me that admissions are full. I was actually shocked after this."

She added, "I decided to find out myself. I asked one of my friends to inquire about the admissions. When my friend went to the school and enquired, they found out that the admissions were still on. I was very shocked." Sujata said that this is when she decided to go to school.

"I even decided to make a video of the whole conversation. When I met the principal, she was rude and told me that admissions are not given to children of single parents. She refused to talk to me when I asked her how that was possible. She kept saying that it was her decision and that I was wasting her time. She said kids of single parents are a problem to the school."

Minister of Women and Child Development Smriti Irani has raised the matter with the HRD ministry.

WE DON'T DISCRIMINATE; DON'T HAVE ANY SUCH POLICY: SCHOOL

Reacting to the viral video, a Ryan International School spokesperson said that the school "does not discriminate in admitting students under any criteria nor do we have any such policy for single parents".

"In the given case, we are investigating the issue and will take appropriate action. We will look into the matter and follow the due process," he said.

According to sources in the Ryan group of schools, action will be taken against the principal.