Private schools cannot force parents to buy expensive books, change uniforms after every 3 years: Delhi Govt

The Delhi government on Thursday warned private schools of strict action if they force parents to buy costly educational material and uniforms from it or any specific vendor. The schools have also been directed to not change the color, design, or any other specifications of uniforms for at least three years. The Directorate of Education (DoE) said in an official order that private schools are run by trusts or societies, and have no scope of profit and commercialization.

"Schools shall display a class-wise list of books and writing materials to be introduced in the coming session as per rule well in advance on the school website, and (this should) also be communicated clearly to parents via other media," the DoE order said.

Additionally, schools will also display names, addresses, and telephone numbers of at least five shops in close proximity to the school where books and uniforms will be made available for students, it said.

This order will give freedom to parents across the city to buy books and uniforms for their children at their convenience, Sisodia, who holds the education portfolio, Sisodia said.

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"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 which charge arbitrarily," he said.