Patna: Authorities in Patna have ordered a strict crackdown on private schools allegedly imposing arbitrary fee increases and hidden charges on parents, directing officials to ensure compliance with fee regulations and take action against violators.
District Magistrate Dr Thiyagarajan S M has instructed education officials, including the District Education Officer and sub-divisional officers, to closely monitor private schools following a rise in complaints from parents over unregulated fee collection practices.
According to the administration, schools are accused of levying additional charges beyond approved heads such as tuition, admission, development and annual fees, often without clear disclosure. Parents have also raised concerns over a lack of transparency in published fee structures, which they say has led to confusion and financial strain.
The district administration has now made it mandatory for all private schools to publicly display their complete fee structures on notice boards and official websites. Officials said the aim is to ensure parents have access to full information before admission and during fee payments.
Dr Thiyagarajan has directed that any complaint received must be investigated immediately. Where violations are established, schools may face fines, administrative penalties and potential legal action. He emphasised that no institution is permitted to increase fees without prior approval.
A fee regulation committee constituted by the state government has also been activated to review complaints and recommend action. The committee will be responsible for examining disputes related to fee structures and ensuring regulatory oversight.
Officials said the move is intended to curb financial exploitation and improve transparency in the private education sector. Parents who have long raised concerns over arbitrary charges may see the measures as a form of relief, though enforcement will determine the effectiveness of the crackdown.
