Implement school safety guidelines, Centre tells States

Highlights:

• In response to recent protests over the alleged sexual assault of two four-year-old girls at a school in Badlapur near Mumbai, the Union Education Ministry has issued a directive to all States and Union Territories to rigorously implement its guidelines on school safety and security.
• The Ministry's action underscores the urgent need for enhanced measures to protect children in educational institutions across the country.

Background and Directive

1. Recent Incident and Public Outcry:

• The directive follows widespread protests triggered by the alleged sexual assault of two young girls at a school in Badlapur. The incident has intensified public scrutiny over the safety and security protocols in schools, compelling the Ministry to take immediate action.

2. Guidelines Issued in Accordance with POCSO Act:

• The Ministry reminded States and Union Territories to enforce the ‘Guidelines on School Safety and Security,’ which were issued in 2021 under the Protection of Children against Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
• These guidelines aim to establish a robust framework for safeguarding children in government, government-aided, and private schools.

3. Key Provisions of the Guidelines:

• Accountability: The guidelines emphasize the accountability of school management in ensuring the safety and security of children. This applies to both the school environment and school transportation systems.
• Scope of Application: The guidelines are directed at various stakeholders, including school management, principals, teachers in private and unaided schools, and heads, in-charge heads, and education administrators in government and government-aided schools.
• Comprehensive Coverage: The guidelines cover preventive education, stakeholder accountability, reporting procedures, legal provisions, support and counseling, and the creation of a safe environment. These measures are intended to foster accessibility, inclusiveness, and positive learning outcomes.

4. States and UTs Encouraged to Adapt Guidelines:

• The Ministry has granted States and Union Territories the flexibility to modify or add to the guidelines based on specific regional needs. However, the core emphasis remains on the ‘Zero Tolerance Policy’ for any negligence concerning child safety in schools.

5. Importance of Stakeholder Involvement:

• The guidelines stress the importance of involving all stakeholders, including students and parents, in creating a secure and nurturing school environment. This holistic approach aims to address not only physical safety but also socio-emotional, cognitive, and disaster-specific aspects of child security.

Prelims Takeaway:

• POSCO Act