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Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary has taken a historic decision to ensure transparency and accountability in the state's private schools. For a long time, complaints had been received regarding exorbitant fee hikes by private schools, the compulsion to purchase books and uniforms from specific designated shops, and the harassment of students over outstanding dues. Taking cognizance of all these issues, the government has now issued strict guidelines.

**Information Must Now Be Made Public**
According to the new order, it will now be mandatory for all private schools in the state to make their fee structure public. School administrations will no longer be able to arbitrarily increase fees in the middle of an academic session. Any form of unnecessary fees or hidden charges has been completely prohibited. Parents will now have the right to know the full details of school fees in advance, thereby preventing any sudden financial burden from being imposed upon them.

**Mandatory Brand and Shop Restrictions Lifted**
The largest syndicate operated by private schools revolves around books and uniforms. Often, schools would compel parents to purchase supplies—at inflated prices—from specific shops only. Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary's order has put an end to this practice. Now, students and parents will be free to purchase books and uniforms from any shop of their choice, as per their convenience. School administrations will no longer be able to exert pressure regarding any specific brand or vendor.

**Exams Will Not Be Withheld Over Fee Arrears**
Demonstrating sensitivity, the government has clarified that even if a student has outstanding fee dues, the school cannot prevent them from appearing for examinations, nor can it withhold or obstruct their results. This is being hailed as a major humanitarian step aimed at preventing education from being reduced to a mere commercial enterprise.

**Violating Rules Will Carry Severe Consequences**
The Chief Minister has issued a clear warning: if any private school is found to be in violation of these orders, strict legal action will be initiated against it. District Education Officers have been instructed to maintain strict vigilance in this regard. The process of revoking the recognition of schools that fail to comply with these orders may even be initiated. 

Steps Towards Transparent and Equitable Education
Welcoming this decision, educationists and parents' associations have hailed it as a lifeline for the state's education system. This will not only make education more accessible but also bring about equitable reforms in the functioning of private schools. The government's stance makes it clear that exploitation in the name of education will no longer be tolerated in Bihar.

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