Notice to seven Sonepat schools for violating norms

The Education Department has issued show-cause notices to seven private schools in Sonepat for allegedly compelling parents to buy books, uniforms, and stationery from designated vendors. The notices were served following multiple complaints from parents and social media posts.

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Naveen Gulia, District Education Officer (DEO), Sonepat, said the schools have been asked to respond within three days, failing which action will be taken. “Several complaints were received that private schools are selling books or recommending specific shops for uniforms and stationery. This violates government rules and imposes an undue financial burden on parents,” Gulia said.

The schools served notices include Orchid International School, Gateway International School, Jain Vidya Mandir, South Point School, Rishikul World Academy, Dron Public School, and Shiva Shiksha Sadan School.

The notice to schools reads: “Your school is allegedly selling books on premises and compelling parents to buy from specific vendors. This contradicts government policies and ethical education standards. Education must not be a profit-making venture.”

The DEO also reminded schools of the Haryana School Education Rules, 2003, which prohibit schools from compelling parents to buy books or uniforms from any particular shop.

Haryana Education Minister Mahipal Dhanda confirmed that around 200 complaints had been received through emails and toll-free numbers. “We have instructed officials to investigate such complaints. Strict action will be taken under the law against schools found guilty,” he said.

Dhanda said, for the first time in the state, government school students will receive books on time. “All textbooks will be delivered by April 21 to ensure smooth academic functioning,” he added.