Supreme Court Directs Kerala Govt to Establish Primary Schools in Underserved Areas

The Supreme Court directed the Kerala Government to identify habitations lacking adequate access to primary education and establish schools in such areas. The Court stressed that the constitutional guarantee under Article 21A requires the State to provide free and compulsory elementary education within reasonable distance from children’s homes. Noting gaps in educational infrastructure, the Court ordered the government to conduct a detailed survey, allocate resources, and ensure trained staff and proper facilities. The Court emphasised that socio-economic rights, though progressively realizable, become enforceable when administrative inaction undermines constitutional mandates. The judgment highlights the importance of ensuring equal access to education, especially for disadvantaged communities.