New Delhi, April 30 -- In a strict warning to private schools allegedly involved in irregularities and compelling parents to buy books, stationery and uniform from specific shops, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Thursday said she may conduct a surprise check anytime, and punitive actions will follow, including even government takeover.

Gupta has directed all the private schools to display a notice on their websites, stating that "parents can buy books, stationary and dresses from whereever they want," adding that it is not mandatory that such things be bought only from shops run buy schools.

Gupta reiterated that schools must take this very seriously, that any institution found violating the order will face strict action, which could end up...