The Dimapur Naga Students’ Union (DNSU) has expressed serious concern over what it termed as an “unethical and exploitative practice” adopted by several educational institutions in Dimapur, where students and parents are being compelled to purchase textbooks and school uniforms exclusively from their respective schools at inflated prices far above market rates.
In a statement, DNSU said such impositions is unacceptable as it restricts the freedom of parents to buy books and uniforms from legitimate vendors of their choice and place an excessive financial burden on families, particularly those from economically weaker sections. The union warned that such practices are gradually turning education into a privilege of the wealthy instead of a fundamental right accessible to all.
The Union firmly reiterated that no school has the authority to enforce mandatory purchases from the institution itself, describing the practice as blatant profiteering that must be stopped immediately. It also pointed out that many schools are changing textbooks every academic year, making it impossible for students to reuse books or benefit from second-hand or passed-down books. This, it said, has destroyed a long-standing practice that once helped students from modest backgrounds continue their education affordably.
Highlighting legal provisions, DNSU stated that such actions go against the spirit of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act, 2009, which stresses accessibility, affordability, and the prevention of commercial exploitation in education. The Union further cited Article 21 of the Constitution of India, which guarantees the right to live with dignity, asserting that forcing parents to buy overpriced books and uniforms violates their freedom of choice and pushes families into financial distress.
DNSU also appealed to all educational institutions to refrain from frequently changing school uniforms or introducing entirely new patterns without genuine necessity. Constant alterations, the Union said, force parents to buy expensive new uniforms from selected school suppliers every year, again at inflated prices. Uniforms, it stressed, should be designed for long-term stability ensuring that parents are not compelled to purchase new sets every year without valid justification.
Calling the trend a reflection of eroding values in the education system, DNSU said institutions entrusted with shaping the future generation appear to be prioritizing profit over moral responsibility. Education, the Union emphasized, must remain a noble pursuit grounded in equity and not be reduced to a commercial enterprise designed to extract money from vulnerable parents.
DNSU urged school managements to introspect and realign themselves with the true ethos and purpose of education.
While reaffirming its commitment to protecting the welfare of students, DNSU also urged parents to extend full cooperation for any collective action to succeed. The Union noted that although it has raised this issue on multiple occasions in the past, efforts often failed due to lack of parental cooperation and the unwillingness of citizens to stand up for the rights of their own children. It cautioned that merely complaining privately or on social media without standing up for children’s rights would not bring meaningful change.
The Union welcomed constructive criticism aimed at strengthening its work but warned that irresponsible mockery of the organization or its office bearers disrespects the efforts of those who have served student welfare over the years.
DNSU further informed the public that its office remains open to receive grievances, suggestions, and complaints related to student welfare. Parents and guardians have been encouraged to come forward so that issues can be addressed promptly. For grievances, the union has provided the contact number of its Education Secretary, Kevin Gonmei (9560378048), assuring that all concerns will be taken seriously and handled with utmost sincerity.
