‘Parents free to buy books and uniforms anywhere:’ Delhi CM

The Delhi government has directed private and aided schools not to compel parents to purchase books, uniforms, or stationery from designated vendors, warning of strict action for violations.

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said parents are free to buy these items from any shop and that schools must clearly communicate this across all platforms.

"Every school will state it clearly on its notice board, on its 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, no single-vendor diktat,” she said.

She clarified that while schools may recommend vendors, they cannot make such purchases mandatory.

The chief minister also said inspections can be conducted without prior notice to ensure compliance. "I can walk into any private school in Delhi for an inspection anytime."

She added that inspections would be driven by complaints received from parents. "My inspections are not a gimmick. They are enforcement in action. They are driven by the voices of parents who have written to me, telling me where I must go next."

Warning of strict consequences, Gupta said violations would not be tolerated. "Ensure this without exception. Any violation, any manipulation, will invite the toughest action available under the law. A takeover is not beyond consideration."

The directive comes as inspection drives begin across the city. During a recent check by Education and Revenue Department teams at a private school in Rohini, authorities found the institution did not have a valid fire safety certificate. A swimming pool operating without a license was sealed, while other irregularities are under review.

The move builds on an earlier advisory that prohibited schools from forcing parents to buy from specific vendors. The latest order strengthens enforcement through mandatory disclosures, surprise inspections, and the possibility of punitive action.

Authorities said inspections will continue across private and aided schools in Delhi to monitor compliance.