No school can force students to buy books or uniforms from specific shops: DM

Lucknow: Amid complaints from parents, the Lucknow district magistrate (DM) has said that no school can force students to buy books or uniforms from specific shops. Also, schools cannot charge beyond the approved fee structure from students.

The decision was taken on Thursday during the district fee regulatory committee led by Lucknow DM Vishakh G.

The meeting focused on ensuring implementation of the UP Self-Financed Schools (Fee Regulation) Act, 2018, and its 2020 amendment, particularly in matters related to fee transparency and protection of students’ rights.

As per section 8 of the Act, the DM heads the committee responsible for examining proposals for fee hikes, handling complaints from parents, verifying compliance with prescribed standards, and recommending corrective action in case of irregularities.

During the meeting, ADM (Civil Supplies) Jyoti Gautam and the district inspector of schools were designated as nodal officers for fee‑related grievances. Parents may contact these officers for assistance, said officials.

To strengthen monitoring, the district administration has formed joint inspection teams comprising SDMs, ACMs and principals of govt secondary schools. The DM directed officials to conduct coordinated inspections with the education department and submit timely reports based on complaints received in their respective jurisdictions.

A major emphasis of the meeting was on transparency. The DM instructed all schools to display complete fee details on their websites and notice boards. Schools have been categorically warned that charging any amount beyond the approved fee or imposing capitation fees is strictly prohibited. Every fee payment must be supported by a proper receipt, and the full fee structure must be submitted to the DIOS office.