Ludhiana, July 15 -- The fourth round of counselling for Class 9 admissions to Punjab's Meritorious Schools commenced on Tuesday amid growing discontent among students and parents over the state's migration policy. Parents alleged that despite securing high merit ranks, students are often compelled to settle for an undesired stream or school as migration requests are considered only after all counselling rounds conclude and subject to the availability of vacant seats.

Under the existing admission process, candidates who fail to secure their preferred stream or school during their allotted counselling session must either accept the available option or forgo admission. Although they can subsequently apply for migration, such requests are p...