The Delhi government has directed private unaided schools not to compel parents or students to buy books, uniforms, or stationery from specific vendors. Schools must provide clear lists, allow multiple purchasing options, follow official curriculum guidelines, and prevent financial exploitation, ensuring transparency and fair competition for families.

New Delhi: Delhi government on Wednesday instructed the private unaided recognised schools not to compel students or parents to purchase books, writing materials or uniforms from specific vendors, reiterating that families must have the freedom to choose where to buy these items.

The Directorate of Education on Wednesday said that, under the provisions of the Delhi School Education Act and Rules (DSEAR), 1973, and the Delhi Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Rules, 2011, the directive comes in the wake of complaints that some schools were forcing parents to buy educational materials from designated shops.

According to the order, schools are required to provide parents with clear, class-wise lists of books, writing materials and uniform specifications in a transparent manner, while ensuring that multiple purchasing options are available in the open market.

The directorate noted that private unaided recognised schools operate as charitable institutions on a "no profit, no loss" basis and, therefore, any activity leading to commercialisation or financial burden on parents is not permissible.