The Bihar administration has adopted a firm approach against illegal practices by private schools. The action targets arbitrary charges collected for uniforms, books, shoes, and stationery. Parents had been raising complaints for several years regarding forced purchases at inflated prices. The issue gained urgency due to rising education expenses across the state.
Several private schools were found pressuring parents to buy materials from fixed vendors. These vendors often charged prices much higher than prevailing market rates. Parents alleged that refusal resulted in indirect pressure on students. Such practices created widespread resentment among families.
Allegations of Vendor Tie-Ups and Forced Purchases
Investigations revealed informal arrangements between school managements and selected shopkeepers. Parents were repeatedly instructed to purchase books and uniforms only from approved shops. Open market purchases were discouraged or indirectly restricted. This system led to inflated pricing of basic school necessities.
Uniforms, stationery items, and even shoes were sold at several times their actual value. Parents reported that alternatives were not accepted by schools. Many families felt compelled to comply due to fear of academic consequences. The practice gradually became routine in many institutions.
Financial Burden on Families Raises Concern
The illegal system affected poor and middle-class families the most. Education expenses increased sharply at the beginning of every academic session. Parents struggled to balance household budgets due to rising school-related costs. Many families were forced to borrow money.
Guardians stated that school fees were already high. Additional spending on uniforms and books worsened the burden. The situation created frustration and anxiety among parents. Social dissatisfaction grew steadily over time.
Prohibitory Order Issued Under Section 163
Taking the matter seriously, the district administration issued a prohibitory order. The order was issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023. Authorities exercised legal powers to stop forced commercial practices in schools.
The order clearly prohibits compulsory purchases from fixed shops. No private school can direct parents to specific vendors. The rule applies to principals, school operators, and management committees. Any violation will be treated as a punishable offence.
Parents Granted Freedom to Buy From Open Market
The administration has granted full freedom to parents. They can now purchase books, uniforms, and stationery from any shop. Parents may choose items based on price, quality, and convenience. Competitive market rates are encouraged.
Schools have been warned against applying direct or indirect pressure. Written notices, verbal instructions, or implied threats are prohibited. Even indirect influence will be considered a violation. Authorities emphasized zero tolerance for non-compliance.
Mandatory Transparency Measures for Private Schools
To ensure transparency, the administration has imposed clear conditions. All private schools must publish lists of required books and uniforms. These details must be displayed on school websites. The same information must be available on notice boards.
Parents should have easy access to this information. The move aims to prevent confusion and manipulation. Transparency will allow parents to compare prices independently. Officials believe this will reduce exploitation.
Uniform Change Restricted for Three Years
Frequent uniform changes were another major complaint. The administration has now restricted such practices. Schools cannot change uniforms for at least three years. Once decided, the uniform must remain unchanged.
This rule aims to reduce unnecessary expenses. Parents earlier complained of annual uniform changes. Such changes forced repeated purchases. The new rule is expected to bring long-term relief.
Order Implemented With Immediate Effect
The prohibitory order has come into force immediately. It will remain effective across the entire district. Authorities stated that strict enforcement will follow. Regular inspections will be conducted in private schools.
Surprise checks may also be carried out. Compliance reports will be reviewed periodically. The administration said the order duration may be extended. Future decisions will depend on ground-level compliance.
Strict Legal Action for Any Violation
The administration issued a strong warning to private schools. Any violation will invite strict legal action. Offenders will be prosecuted under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. The law provides for fines and imprisonment.
Responsibility will be fixed individually. Principals, managers, operators, and committee members will be accountable. Collective responsibility will not shield individuals. Ignorance of the order will not be accepted.
Monitoring Mechanism and Complaint Redressal
District officials have been instructed to ensure strict compliance. Education department officers will assist in monitoring. Complaints from parents will be addressed promptly. Confidentiality of complainants will be maintained.
Authorities aim to create a fear-free reporting system. Regular feedback will be collected from parents. This feedback will help assess the order’s effectiveness. Corrective measures will be taken where required.
Parents Welcome Administrative Decision
Parents across the district have welcomed the decision. Many expressed relief after years of financial stress. The order is seen as a protective measure. It is expected to curb arbitrary practices by private schools.
Guardians believe education should not become a commercial burden. They hope fair practices will now be enforced. The decision has restored some trust in the system. Many parents called it a long-awaited step.
Experts Expect Positive Impact on Education System
Education experts have also reacted positively. They said the decision strengthens accountability. Transparency in private education is expected to improve. The move aligns with principles of fairness and consumer rights.
Experts believe strict enforcement is crucial. If implemented properly, it can bring systemic change. The order may serve as a model for other districts. It marks a significant shift in regulating private education in Bihar.
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