On April 7, 2023, Sanjay Naikwade, the primary education officer of Zilla Parishad Pune, issued a circular warning private English-medium schools against the practice of compelling students to purchase uniforms and textbooks exclusively from them. This warning comes in response to numerous complaints from parents regarding inflated prices for these essential items, which are often available at lower rates in the open market. The education department has stated that if schools violate these norms, they may face strict penalties, including recommendations for cancellation of their recognition under the Right to Education Act, 2009. Additionally, the department noted that while a fee hike of up to 15% is permitted once every two years, many schools are exceeding this limit, further burdening parents financially. Naikwade emphasized that schools must treat all students, especially those admitted under the Right to Education Act, with dignity and must refund remaining fees if a student leaves within a short period. Parents have been urged to report any coercive practices or irregularities to the education department.