Sambhal DM Fines 33 Private Schools ₹1 Lakh Each for Book Scam

In a major move to protect students and parents, Sambhal District Magistrate Dr. Rajendra Paisiya has imposed a ₹1 lakh fine on 33 private schools for forcing students to buy expensive books from private publishers instead of the prescribed NCERT books. The schools were also found to be directing parents to purchase books from specific shops, violating the Uttar Pradesh Fee Regulation Act, 2018.

Investigation Uncovers Widespread Book Irregularities

The action was triggered after several parents complained about being pressured to purchase non-NCERT books from certain outlets. Following these complaints, a team led by SDM Dr. Vandana Mishra and DIOS Shyama Kumar raided Saint Mary School, where books from multiple private publishers were found in use.

Subsequently, the District Fee Regulatory Committee launched an investigation into other private schools, revealing similar violations in 32 more institutions.

1 Lakh Fine and Strict Deadline

The District Magistrate, in a committee meeting held on April 17, declared this a serious breach and ordered a ₹1 lakh penalty on each offending school. All schools have been asked to submit the fine within one week into the District Fee Regulatory Committee’s account and submit the payment receipt to the District Inspector of Schools (DIOS).

Warning of Future Legal Action

DM Dr. Rajendra Paisiya has warned school principals and managements across Sambhal to strictly implement NCERT books. He clarified that repeat offenses would lead to legal action, and such practices will not be tolerated in the district’s educational institutions.

Relief for Parents and a Step Toward Transparency

The move has brought much-needed relief to parents, many of whom were burdened by the cost of unnecessary and overpriced books. This action is seen as a strong message to private schools that violating students' rights and exploiting parents will not be accepted.

This bold action by the Sambhal district administration is a significant step toward ensuring transparency and accountability in private education. It sends a clear message: schools must follow the rules and prioritize student welfare over profit.