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The Government of Punjab has taken a strong step to protect parents from unfair practices by private schools. The provincial education authorities have clearly stated that no private school has the right to force parents to buy textbooks, uniforms, or any other school-related items from selected shops or vendors. This move aims to reduce the financial burden on families and ensure fairness in the education system
Government Warning To Private Schools
Punjab’s Minister for Education, Rana Sikandar Hayat, has issued a clear warning to private educational institutions. He said that schools cannot compel parents or guardians to purchase books, uniforms, or stationery from any particular shop. According to him, such practices are illegal and will not be tolerated. Any school found involved in this kind of pressure will face strict legal action.
Official Notice By School Education Department
The warning is based on an official public notice issued by the Punjab School Education Department on January 22, 2026. The notice makes it clear that forcing parents to buy school items from specific sellers is a serious violation of the law. The department has instructed all private schools to follow the rules strictly and respect parents’ freedom of choice.
Law Behind The Decision
The public notice refers to Section 7A(10) of the Punjab Private Educational Institutions (Promotion & Regulation) Ordinance, 1984. This section clearly states that private schools are not allowed to direct or pressure parents to buy any school-related material from a designated outlet or service provider. If a school violates this rule, it can be penalized under the law and relevant regulations.
How Parents Can Report Violations
The education minister has urged parents to come forward and report any such unlawful demands. Parents can submit their complaints through the Punjab government’s Citizen Relationship Management (CRM) system. They can also report violations to the relevant District Registration Authority (DRA) working in the office of the Chief Executive Officer of the District Education Authority. These steps are meant to ensure that action is taken quickly and fairly against schools that break the rules.
Key Points At A Glance
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Who Issued The Warning | Punjab’s Minister for Education, Rana Sikandar Hayat |
| Date Of Official Notice | January 22, 2026 |
| Relevant Law | Section 7A(10) of the Punjab Private Educational Institutions Ordinance, 1984 |
| Prohibited Practice | Forcing parents to buy books, uniforms, or items from selected shops |
| Reporting Channels | CRM system and District Registration Authority (DRA) |
| Possible Consequences | Legal penalties and action under the law |
Why This Decision Matters
This decision is important for thousands of families across Punjab. Many parents have complained in the past about schools forcing them to buy expensive books and uniforms from specific vendors. Such practices often increase costs and limit parents’ choices. By enforcing the law, the government is trying to create a fair and transparent education environment where parents can make their own purchasing decisions.
Conclusion
The Punjab government’s action sends a strong message to private schools that unfair pressure on parents will not be accepted. With clear legal backing and proper reporting channels, parents now have the power to raise their voice against illegal demands. If implemented properly, this step can bring much-needed relief to families and help build trust between schools and the community.