Chandigarh: The Private Schools Under Scanner issue has intensified in Punjab after the state government announced strict new rules to regulate school fee structures.Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann declared that private schools can no longer increase fees beyond 5% annually.
This decision aims to bring transparency, control rising education costs, and protect parents from unfair financial pressure.
Private Schools Under Scanner as Govt Imposes 5% Fee Cap
The Punjab government has officially placed private schools under scanner by introducing a strict fee regulation policy.
Under this new rule, schools can increase fees only up to 5% per year. Moreover, the government will bring a formal law in the upcoming Punjab Assembly session to enforce this rule across all private schools in the state.
As a result, schools will no longer have freedom to impose arbitrary or excessive fee hikes.
Strict Action Against Violating Schools
Furthermore, the government will take strict action against institutions that violate the new guidelines.
Authorities will force schools collecting excess fees to refund the extra amount to parents. In addition, repeat offenders may face cancellation of recognition.
Therefore, the “Private Schools Under Scanner” move will ensure stronger accountability in the education sector.
Major Relief for Parents Across Punjab
This decision brings significant relief to parents who have been struggling with rising education expenses. Moreover, the fee cap will help families plan their finances better without fear of sudden fee hikes.
As a result, the policy will make education more affordable and stable for students across Punjab.
Ban on Forced Book and Uniform Purchases
The Punjab government has also made it clear that private schools cannot force parents to buy books or uniforms from specific shops.
Instead, parents will now have full freedom to purchase educational materials from the open market. In addition, this step is designed to reduce hidden costs associated with schooling.
Amendment to Education Fee Law
The state government plans to amend the Punjab Regulation of Fees of Unaided Educational Institutions Act, 2016. Moreover, the amendment will close existing loopholes that previously allowed unchecked fee hikes.
Therefore, the revised law will strengthen regulatory control over private schools.
Government Criticizes Previous Policy
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann also criticized earlier policies, stating that previous governments allowed private schools to increase fees without proper regulation. He said that removal of the earlier fee cap led to uncontrolled fee hikes, which directly affected parents.
Consequently, the new government has taken corrective steps by placing Private Schools Under Scanner.
Education Reform for Transparency and Fairness
The Punjab government emphasized that education must remain accessible and affordable for all students.
Furthermore, officials stated that the new policy will ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability in private education institutions.
Key Highlights of the news:
- Private Schools Under Scanner in Punjab due to new fee policy
- Fee hike capped at 5% annually
- Strict law to be introduced in Punjab Assembly
- Excess fees must be refunded to parents
- Schools cannot force book or uniform purchases
- Aim to make education affordable and transparent in Punjab
