Background: The Delhi High Court has stayed an order passed by a single judge allowing private schools to hike fees. The order was challenged by the Delhi government, which argued that the hike was unjustified and would burden parents. Parties: The petitioners were the Delhi government and the respondents were private schools. Legal issues: The main issue was whether private schools could hike fees without the approval of the government. Court observations: The division bench observed that the single judge's order was prima facie incorrect and stayed the operation of the order. The court also issued notice to the private schools and sought their response. Significance: The order is significant as it affects thousands of students and their parents. The court's decision will have a bearing on the fee structure of private schools in the national capital. The Delhi government had earlier directed private schools not to hike fees, citing the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the economy. However, the private schools had challenged the order, arguing that they were facing financial difficulties due to the pandemic. The case will now be heard by the division bench, which will decide on the validity of the fee hike. The court's decision is expected to provide clarity on the issue and bring relief to parents who are struggling to pay the hiked fees. The stay order will remain in operation until the next date of hearing. The court has also directed the private schools to file their response to the petition within four weeks. The case is likely to have far-reaching implications for the education sector in Delhi and may set a precedent for other states as well.