Dimapur, January 19 (MExN): The Dimapur Naga Students’ Union (DNSU) has objected to the growing practice among several educational institutions in Dimapur of compelling students and parents to purchase textbooks and school uniforms exclusively from the schools, often at prices well above the market rate.
In a statement, DNSU said such imposition “is unacceptable, as it restricts the freedom of parents to buy from any legitimate vendor of their choice.” The Union noted that this practice places “an undue financial burden on families, particularly those from economically weaker sections, and gradually turns access to education into a privilege for the affluent rather than a fundamental right for all.”
DNSU said that no institution has the authority to enforce mandatory purchases and called for an immediate end to such profiteering. The Union highlighted that frequent changes in textbooks every academic year prevent students from reusing old books, a practice that previously helped students from humble backgrounds. “This healthy and helpful practice is now being destroyed by schools insisting on compulsory and annual purchases of new books at exorbitant prices,” the statement said. DNSU further noted that such actions contradict the spirit of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act, 2009, which promotes accessibility, affordability, and prevention of commercial exploitation in education. The Union also cited Article 21 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to live with dignity, arguing that forcing parents to purchase overpriced books and uniforms “violates this spirit by restricting their freedom and pressuring them into financial distress.”
The Union urged schools not to frequently change uniforms or introduce new designs without genuine necessity, warning that constant changes compel parents to buy expensive new sets from selected suppliers. “Uniforms should be designed for long-term stability, ensuring that parents are not compelled to purchase new sets every year without valid justification,” DNSU said.
DNSU criticized what it described as a “profound loss of values in our education system,” stating that schools appear to prioritize profit over the holistic development of students. “Education must remain a noble pursuit grounded in equity, not a commercial enterprise designed to extract money from vulnerable parents,” the Union said.
The statement also called on parents to actively support DNSU’s efforts, noting that previous initiatives often failed due to “lack of parental cooperation and the unwillingness of citizens to stand up for the rights of their own children.” DNSU added, “Even God helps those who help themselves, not those who only sit and complain.”
DNSU made it clear that “irresponsible mockery of the Union or its office bearers is unacceptable, as it disrespects all past and present teams who have dedicated themselves to the welfare of students.”
The Union said its office remains open to all, and encouraged parents and students to raise grievances, suggestions, or complaints related to student welfare. For complaints, DNSU advised contacting Kevin Gonmei, Education Secretary, at 9560378048, assuring that every concern “will be taken seriously and addressed with utmost sincerity.”
