Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Goa Book Sellers Association has petitioned Chief Minister Pramod Sawant to take immediate action against schools allegedly engaging in commercial sales of stationery and notebooks on their campuses.
The association has accused several institutions of forcing parents to purchase items from specific vendors tied to the schools, often at prices significantly higher than market rates.
In a formal complaint addressed to the Chief Minister’s Office, Association President Chandrakant Pandit stated, “Several schools have resorted to commercial activities within their premises, with some even involving their staff in conducting stationery sales.” He added that these practices are harming independent booksellers across the state, many of whom rely on school-related sales for their livelihood.
The association claims that these in-school vendors often operate without registration under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime or the Income Tax Department, leading to unfair competition and revenue loss for compliant businesses.
“This practice is eating into the business of independent booksellers and forcing parents to pay inflated rates under the pretext of supporting school infrastructure,” the petition said.
Booksellers also pointed out that the move violates recent directives from the Chief Minister, who had warned government-aided schools against charging infrastructure fees in any form. The association is urging the government to investigate and take disciplinary action against schools indulging in such unauthorized commercial activities.
Speaking to media persons, a South Goa bookseller expressed frustration, stating that principals are often approached by outside vendors offering incentives, who operate briefly during the academic season and disappear, avoiding operational costs and taxes.
“Most schools have started doing business instead of focusing on imparting quality education to students. Goan shop owners who pay rent and taxes suffer,” he said.
The booksellers are hopeful that the Chief Minister will step in to uphold fair business practices and ensure schools prioritize education over commerce.
