HYDERABAD :While the state government says that it will give unrecognised schools three years to comply with the rules and apply for recognition, the managements of these schools argue that it is just not possible for them even if they are given more time. They say the rules regarding fire safety, building lease and traffic certificates are "impractical".

"The rules say that a school should have sufficient space around it to enable a fire engine to move freely. Is it possible for a small school to provide such a space in cities and towns? The norms also stipulate that we procure fire equipment worth lakhs of rupees, which is beyond our reach.

We are not against the fire safety norms; we are ready to provide sand buckets, fire extinguishers and sufficient water to deal with fire accidents. We took up the issue with the fire department in April but we failed to get any response from them," said Mr K.S.N. Murthy, the general secretary, AP Tutorials and Convents Association.

The government will give "temporary recognition" to the schools if they apply by June 30, but the school managements said no to this offer because they do not have the money to invest in the next three years to comply with the rules for permanent recognition.

Unrecognised schools have proliferated in the state because of the poor quality of education in the government schools.