The Ministry of Education has issued a directive to all States and Union Territories (UTs), mandating the implementation of the “Guidelines on School Safety and Security-2021.” This directive aims to bolster the protection of children within educational institutions, following directives from the Supreme Court in Writ Petitions (Criminal) No. 136 of 2017 and (Civil) No. 874 of 2017.
Aligned with the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, these guidelines are designed to establish clear accountability across Government, Government-aided, and Private Schools. They encompass a range of critical areas including preventive education, reporting procedures, legal provisions, and the creation of a safe learning environment. The guidelines emphasise a ‘Zero Tolerance Policy’ towards negligence in child safety.
The Ministry has requested that States and UTs provide updates on the status of these guidelines within their jurisdictions. Initially circulated on October 1, 2021, the guidelines are advisory and allow for flexibility to accommodate local needs. They aim to promote understanding among all stakeholders—students, parents, and school staff—regarding the shared responsibility in maintaining a secure and supportive school environment.
Key aspects of the guidelines include the need for schools to establish preventive measures, clear reporting procedures, and support services. They also address the accountability of school management, principals, and teachers, both in private and government-aided schools, to ensure child safety. Additionally, the guidelines cover the safety of students during transportation to and from school.
The directive seeks to empower stakeholders by clarifying their roles in implementing the guidelines and underscores the necessity of creating a comprehensive safety framework. This initiative is intended to enhance the overall well-being of children, ensuring their holistic development in a secure and supportive educational setting.
