Pune News: Student Safety Guidelines Under Fire: Activists Demand More Concrete Measures 

The state education department’s recent guidelines for ensuring student safety in schools have come under fire from activists, who claim that the measures are insufficient and lack effective implementation. The guidelines, issued in response to the Badlapur incident, mandate schools to set up student safety committees, install CCTV cameras, and conduct background checks on staff.

However, activists argue that these measures are not new and have been repeatedly instructed by the education department without proper follow-up. Mukund Kirdat, a member of the AAP Parents’ Association, stated, “We need to know how many of these rules are followed by schools. Many CCTV cameras installed by government schools are not working, and fire-fighting equipment is non-functional.”

Sheetal Dhekne, member of Pune District School Parents’ Association, added, “Children must be safe in schools, and every individual, whether in school or outside, should take responsibility for their safety. The government should do much more than just issue guidelines.” She emphasized that the government’s guidelines often remain on paper and are not effectively implemented.

Commissioner of education Suraj Mandhare defended the guidelines, stating, “Students’ safety is paramount, and the government is taking serious cognizance of some unfortunate incidents. Directives have been issued from time to time, and there can be no compromise.” He highlighted that the guidelines aim to ensure a safe environment for students, especially girls.

The guidelines also emphasize the importance of regular monitoring of CCTV footage and prompt action in case of any objectionable matters. The school management committee will be responsible for ensuring the implementation of these measures. Upper secretary of the state education department Pramod Patil stated that the school management must conduct thorough background checks on non-teaching staff, including security guards, cleaners, and school bus drivers.

Despite the education department’s efforts, activists remain skeptical about the effectiveness of these measures in ensuring student safety. They demand more concrete measures to prevent incidents of violence and abuse in schools. The government’s response to these concerns remains to be seen.