Ranchi Cracks Down on Private Schools Over Fee Hike Complaints

Brief By Newsbrief / 4:24 PM on 30 Mar 2026

Authorities in Ranchi have taken a firm stance against private schools following multiple complaints of arbitrary fee hikes and illegal charges under the guise of re-admission. A district-level committee, chaired by Deputy Commissioner Manjunath Bhajantri, has been constituted to investigate cases and ensure accountability.

Officials have warned that schools violating norms may face penalties ranging from ₹50,000 to ₹2.5 lakh, with the possibility of derecognition in serious cases. Clear directives have also been issued prohibiting schools from forcing parents to purchase books, uniforms, or other materials from specific vendors.

The committee includes education officials, a transport officer, a chartered accountant, and a parent representative, and will handle complaints in a time-bound manner. While parents have welcomed the move, many remain skeptical, citing past instances where similar actions yielded limited results. The administration has assured strict enforcement to reduce financial pressure on families.