Schools can't force parents to buy books, dress from specific vendor: Delhi govt

The Delhi government on Thursday ordered private schools to "stop forcing" parents to buy books and uniforms from specific vendors.

Stringent action will be taken against school administrations or vendors if the same is not followed, the government said.

The directorate of education (DoE) in a notification stated that private schools are run by trusts or societies and that there was no scope for "profit or commercialisation."

Stating that the primary goal of education is to nurture the nation's future, deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia said,"This order brings a sigh of relief for parents who are struggling to pay the heavy amount for books and uniforms in these private schools. Many households have lost their source of income since the Covid-19 pandemic hit two years ago, making it difficult for them to purchase expensive books and uniforms from specific shops. This order will give freedom to parents across the city to buy books and uniforms for their children as per their convenience."

Apart from ordering that schools must not change the colour, design or any other specification of uniforms for the next three years, the DoE further stated that schools are required to display addresses and contact details of at least five shops in close proximity of the schools where books and uniforms are available.

"Parents can buy books and uniforms from any shop as per their convenience and suitability," the order stated.