The growing “dictatorship” of schools across India has become a major concern for parents and households in recent times. Many videos circulating on social media show instances where teachers or school management impose unusual demands on parents to generate money through petty means.
Issues such as the sudden increase in school fees, compulsory purchase of books from a single vendor, and uniforms from designated shops have led to frequent conflicts between parents and school authorities.
Amid this, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta recently announced on social media that she has the authority to inspect any private school in Delhi at any time. She stated:
“I can walk into any private school in Delhi for an inspection, anytime.
Every school must clearly state on its notice board, website, and at any store it operates that parents are free to buy uniforms, books, and stationery from anywhere. There will be no coercion, no captive buying, and no single-vendor diktat.
Ensure this without exception. Any violation or manipulation will invite the toughest action available under the law. A takeover is not beyond consideration.
My inspections are not a gimmick. They are enforcement in action, driven by the voices of parents who have written to me, telling me where I must go next.
Keep sending your suggestions.
Fixing Delhi is our responsibility. My Delhi. My responsibility.”
While many people appreciate this move, others believe it is still not enough to regulate private schools effectively. Some parents have pointed out that they have already purchased books and uniforms, making it too late for immediate relief. On platforms like X, several users are replying with school names and lodging complaints against them.
Humaari Baat’s Perspective
Humaari Baat believes that standard guidelines must be established and implemented for private schools and colleges to ensure that education does not turn into a business.
A state-level fee regulatory authority should be introduced, taking into account the facilities provided by schools. Vendor monopolies must be stopped immediately. Whether it is uniforms or books, schools should not enforce purchases from specific sellers.
Ideally, schools should promote the use of NCERT books as a standard. Private publishers should not be forced upon students; instead, their books can be optional or supplementary. Schools may keep additional reference books in libraries for students who cannot afford them.
Furthermore, any increase in fees or financial changes should be notified at least 30 days in advance.
Implementing such regulations can significantly reduce the growing “dictatorship” of schools and restore balance in the education system.
