This decision follows widespread protests sparked by the alleged sexual abuse of two kindergarten girls at a school in Badlapur, located near Mumbai
In the wake of a tragic incident of sexual abuse at a school in Badlapur, the Maharashtra government has mandated the installation of CCTV cameras in all schools across the state within a month. The directive, issued by School Education Minister Deepak Kesarkar, warns of severe consequences for non-compliance, including the potential revocation of a school’s operating license.
This decision follows widespread protests sparked by the alleged sexual abuse of two kindergarten girls at a school in Badlapur, located near Mumbai. A school attendant has been arrested in connection with the case, further intensifying public outcry.
The government’s directive emphasises that all private and public schools must install CCTV cameras in key areas within their premises. Failure to do so could result in penalties such as withholding financial grants or even the revocation of the school’s operating permit.
“The installation of a comprehensive CCTV camera network is a proactive measure to enhance the safety and security of students, teachers, and staff,” the order stated. To support this initiative, the school education department has authorised the use of 5 per cent of funds allocated to schools in the District Planning and Development Council for establishing CCTV systems in state-run and aided schools.
The order also outlines the responsibility of school principals to review CCTV footage at least three times a week. If any concerning activities are captured, it is the principal’s duty to report them to the police immediately.
In addition to surveillance measures, the government has directed schools to conduct thorough background checks on all employees with the assistance of the local police. Schools are required to submit the details and photographs of their staff to the nearest police station. Furthermore, schools must install complaint boxes on their premises to encourage students to report any issues.
To ensure ongoing student safety, the state government has established a state-level school students’ safety committee, chaired by the school education commissioner. The committee, comprising six members and an assistant director (administration) as the member secretary, will meet quarterly to review safety measures and report to the state government.
Cabinet Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha, who also serves as the guardian minister for Mumbai’s suburban district, has urged the district collector to enhance safety protocols in schools. Lodha’s recommendations include deploying female staff to monitor girls’ washrooms and ensuring that only female sanitation workers are assigned to clean these areas. The minister stressed that sanitation staff must undergo police verification.
Lodha suggested that a woman staff member should be present on all school buses, taxis, and vans used for student transportation. “The entire school premises, except for washrooms, should be brought under the surveillance of CCTV cameras,” Lodha wrote, adding that regular checks on the cameras’ functionality should be conducted by beat marshals or patrolling police teams.