India, April 23 -- The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued notices to the Union education ministry, Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), and all states and Union Territories (UT) over allegations that private schools are prescribing costly books from private publishers.

In response to a complaint dated April 9, the NHRC on April 15 said the issue raises concerns of "financial burden" on parents and possible denial of equitable access to education.

NHRC member Priyank Kanoongo-led bench directed chief secretaries and UT administrators to submit responses within 30 days.

The NHRC said the allegations "prima facie" indicate violations of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act. It cited the ...