India, April 8 -- puneletters@hindustantimes.com

Widespread resentment is brewing among parents over steep and allegedly arbitrary fee hikes by private schools. The state education department has assured strict action against violations and announced major policy reforms, including fee regulation and a formal refund policy.

School Education commissioner Sachindra Pratap Singh and director of Primary Education Sharad Gosavi acknowledged receiving numerous complaints from parents regarding irregular fee increases. "Schools cannot raise fees arbitrarily. If excess fee hikes are found, action will be taken after due inquiry," Gosavi said, urging parents to file written complaints.

Parents have reported significant fee increases in several ...