Key proposals include the mandatory installation of surveillance cameras on school premises, the provision of separate washrooms for boys and girls with male and female attendants respectively, and initiatives to educate children about ‘good touch, bad touch’ and cybercrime awareness
In a significant move to strengthen child safety in schools, the Bombay High Court has directed the Maharashtra government to ensure that all schools install CCTV cameras before the commencement of the upcoming academic session. The directive came as the court continued hearing a suo motu public interest litigation (PIL) initiated after the alleged sexual assault of two minor students at a school in Badlapur in August 2024.
During a recent hearing, state prosecutor Prajakta Shinde informed the division bench comprising Justices Revati Mohite Dere and Neela Gokhale that a government resolution (GR) based on recommendations from an expert committee will be issued within a week. “The GR will give schools sufficient time to comply with the recommendations, including installation of CCTV cameras, before the new academic term begins,” Shinde told the court.
The committee, constituted by the state education department, was led by two retired judges of the High Court and submitted its detailed report to the court in February. Its wide-ranging recommendations aim to enhance the safety and security framework for schoolchildren across Maharashtra.
Key proposals include the mandatory installation of surveillance cameras on school premises, the provision of separate washrooms for boys and girls with male and female attendants respectively, and initiatives to educate children about ‘good touch, bad touch’ and cybercrime awareness. The court also voiced strong support for incorporating sex education and counselling sessions into the school curriculum.
Given the summer vacation period and limited staff availability during May, Shinde requested that schools be given eight weeks from the date of the GR to meet compliance requirements. She also noted that inputs from amicus curiae advocate Rebecca Gonsalves — particularly regarding cyber and physical bullying — will be included in the final government directive.
The court emphasised that the safety of children must be treated as a priority and not deferred until incidents occur. The proposed measures are intended to create a safer environment and equip students with the knowledge and support needed to navigate physical and digital spaces responsibly.
With the new academic year fast approaching, the High Court’s proactive stance is expected to push forward long-needed reforms in school safety policies. The upcoming GR will provide a structured timeline for schools to implement these safeguards, ensuring better preparedness and accountability in protecting children on school campuses.
