While sancha manyata or teacher allotment has long been a concern for day schools, the regulation has become especially alarming for Mumbai’s night schools. Already dealing with fluctuating student enrollment, many fear that allotment rules tied strictly to student numbers may leave them without enough teachers to sustain classes.

The principal of a Worli-based night school told mid-day that 64 students are currently enrolled, including 23 in Std X, 21 in Std IX and 20 in Std VIII. Under the previous allotment, the school received approval for three teacher posts, but only two have been filled. In addition, teachers have taken on the extra responsibility of scouting for more students to boost enrolment.