The Ministry of Education has directed all states and union territories (UTs) to implement the “Guidelines on School Safety and Security-2021” to improve the safety and security of children in educational institutions. This action follows the Supreme Court’s instructions in response to Writ Petition (Criminal) No. 136 of 2017 and Writ Petition (Civil) No. 874 of 2017, as addressed by the Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSEL).
Key Aspects of the Guidelines:
The guidelines, which align with the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, aim to establish clear accountability for school management across government, government-aided, and private schools. Key elements include:
- Preventive Education: Promoting awareness and education to prevent safety breaches.
- Reporting Process: Clear procedures for reporting safety incidents.
- Legal Provisions: Adherence to legal requirements under POCSO and related laws.
- Support Services: Availability of support services for affected children.
- Safe Environment: Creating a secure and conducive environment for learning.
Implementation and Accountability:
The Ministry has requested updates from states and UTs on the notification status of these guidelines within their jurisdictions. The guidelines, issued on October 1, 2021, provide flexibility for states to adapt them to local needs. They emphasize a “zero tolerance policy” towards any negligence related to child safety.
The guidelines are designed to ensure:
- Stakeholder Awareness: Increasing understanding among students, parents, and educators about the importance of co-creating a safe school environment.
- Holistic Development: Supporting the physical, socio-emotional, and cognitive development of children by ensuring their safety.
- Accountability: Placing responsibility on school management, principals, and teachers in private and unaided schools, and on head teachers and education administrators in government and government-aided schools, for the safety of children. This includes ensuring safety during commutes to and from school.
The Ministry’s initiative underscores the importance of a safe educational environment as a foundation for children’s holistic development.
