Schools can't for parents to buy items from particular shops: Haryana Education Minister

Haryana Education Minister Mahipal Dhanda said under Haryana School Education Rules, 2003, no student or their parents shall be compelled to purchase textbooks, stationery, school uniforms, or related materials from a particular shop recommended by the school. The Education Department has issued instructions in this regard.

The Minister further said recognised schools are not allowed to change the design of their school uniform for five consecutive academic years. Moreover, no student shall be forced to purchase textbooks, notebooks, writing materials, shoes, socks, or uniforms from shops recommended by the school. Parents and students are free to purchase these items from any shop of their choice.

To ensure compliance, a circular has been issued by the Directorate of Education to all District Education Officers and District Elementary Education Officers of the state.

In case of any grievances, parents can reach out via email at dseps13@gmail.com or contact the department by phone at 0172-5049810.

Dhanda also said all schools must strictly adhere to Clauses 6 and 7 of Rule 158 of the Haryana School Education Rules, 2003. Any negligence or violation by school authorities would attract strict action under the provisions of the Haryana School Education Act, 1995, and the Right to Education Act, 2009.