Dimapur, January 19: The Dimapur Naga Students’ Union (DNSU) has strongly objected to what it described as unethical and exploitative practices adopted by several educational institutions in Dimapur, where students and parents are allegedly compelled to purchase textbooks, uniforms and other educational materials exclusively from schools or designated vendors at prices significantly higher than prevailing market rates.
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In a press release issued on Monday, the union expressed concern that such practices restrict the freedom of parents to choose where they purchase educational materials and place an unnecessary financial burden on families. According to the DNSU, the issue is particularly challenging for economically weaker households, many of whom struggle to meet the rising costs associated with school education.
The union stated that making the purchase of books and uniforms compulsory through specific suppliers undermines the principles of affordability and accessibility in education. It warned that if such practices continue unchecked, education could gradually become a privilege reserved for those who can afford inflated costs, rather than a fundamental right available to all children.
DNSU emphasized that educational institutions have no authority to force parents or students to buy textbooks and uniforms directly from schools or from selected vendors. The student body demanded that schools immediately discontinue any form of compulsory sale and refrain from engaging in practices that appear to prioritize profit over the welfare of students and their families.
Another major concern raised by the union was the frequent revision and replacement of textbooks every academic year. DNSU pointed out that regular changes in prescribed books make it impossible for students to reuse old textbooks or obtain second-hand copies from seniors, thereby increasing educational expenses. The union argued that such practices run contrary to the spirit of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act, 2009, which seeks to promote equitable access to education.
The union also cited Article 21 of the Constitution of India, which guarantees the right to life and personal liberty and has been interpreted by the Supreme Court to include the right to live with dignity. DNSU maintained that forcing families to purchase overpriced educational materials infringes upon this principle by creating avoidable financial hardship.
In addition, the union appealed to schools not to frequently alter uniform designs or introduce new patterns without genuine necessity. According to DNSU, repeated changes compel parents to purchase entirely new sets of uniforms every year, often from designated suppliers charging higher prices. The union stressed that school uniforms should remain stable and affordable over long periods to reduce financial pressure on families.
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Expressing concern over what it termed a growing commercialization of education, DNSU urged school authorities and managements to introspect and realign themselves with the true purpose of education. The union stated that schools should focus on nurturing students, promoting equity and fostering holistic development rather than treating education as a profit-driven enterprise.
The student body also called upon parents to unite and support efforts to address exploitative practices in the education sector. It said meaningful reforms would require cooperation from all stakeholders, including parents, educators and civil society. While welcoming constructive criticism and dialogue, DNSU cautioned against irresponsible remarks or mockery directed at the union or its office bearers.
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting student interests and ensuring access to affordable education, the DNSU stated that its office remains open to receiving grievances, suggestions and complaints related to educational issues. The union encouraged parents and members of the public to contact its Education Secretary for assistance and prompt redressal of concerns.
