In a strong move to protect parents from unfair practices by private schools, education authorities have made it clear that schools can’t force uniform or stationery purchases, or compel students to buy books from a particular shop or vendor. This rule aims to prevent schools from partnering with specific sellers and overcharging parents, which has been a growing concern.
Schools can’t force uniform or stationery from Specific Shops
According to the education departments, all schools — whether private or government-aided — must give parents the freedom to purchase uniforms and learning materials from wherever they choose. Many schools earlier pressured parents to buy expensive items from selected shops, sometimes at much higher prices than market rates.
Important directives for schools include:
- No school can tie up with any shop or vendor to sell uniforms, books, or stationery.
- Schools must provide a list of prescribed items (like books or uniforms) without recommending a particular place to buy them from.
- Changing the design, color, or style of uniforms frequently is not allowed. Schools should maintain the same uniform for at least three academic years to reduce the financial burden on parents.
- Schools cannot run their shops inside the premises for commercial gain.
How Parents Can File Complaints
Parents facing such issues now have an official platform to raise their concerns. In Gujarat, the Sarathi Helpline is available for complaints related to school fees, forced purchases, or any other educational malpractice.
- Sarathi Helpline Contact: 079-23973615
- National Consumer Helpline: 1800-11-4000 or 1915
- Online Complaint Portal: https://consumerhelpline.gov.in
These helplines ensure that parents can speak up without fear. Complaints can be made anonymously as well.
Summary
Schools Can’t Force Uniform or Stationery Purchases from a specific shop. Education authorities have warned against such practices, calling them illegal and exploitative. To protect parent rights, helplines like Sarathi and the National Consumer Helpline are available to register complaints. These steps aim to ensure fairness, affordability, and transparency in the education system.
