Banke Chief Warns Schools Over Cross-Border Uniform Purchases

Nepalgunj: Chief District Officer (CDO) of Banke, Dharma Raj Joshi, has strongly warned private schools against forcing students to buy uniforms from India. This warning comes after parents reported shady “setting” deals between schools and Indian vendors.

Legal Action Looms for Offending Schools

During an interaction program organized by the Nepalgunj Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Joshi clearly stated that schools sending students or parents to India for uniforms will face legal action. He emphasized, “Sending students across the border for uniforms is a punishable offense. Offenders will be taken into custody by the District Police Office.”

Support for Local Businesses is Essential

Joshi highlighted that buying from Indian markets, even for basic household items, harms the local economy. He made it clear that such practices will not be tolerated any longer. According to him, encouraging local purchases strengthens Nepal’s economy and benefits small businesses.

Common Uniform Proposal to Stop the Practice

To address the issue more broadly, Joshi proposed a unified school uniform design for all private schools in Banke. This standardization, he believes, would reduce dependence on cross-border vendors and promote the use of local garment producers.

Chamber Alleges Commission-Based Deals

Tank Dhami, President of the Chamber of Commerce, alleged that many school operators push students to buy uniforms and stationery from India to earn commissions. He urged schools to support local suppliers, stating they offer better quality at a more affordable price.

Border Checks Tighten Under CDO’s Orders

Joshi’s uniform crackdown is part of a broader anti-smuggling initiative. Since taking office, he has instructed border officials at Jamunaha to strengthen inspections and prevent excessive import of goods disguised as household items.

Source: Siraj Khan, Gorkhapatra