In response to a shocking incident of sexual abuse at a school in Badlapur, the Maharashtra government has mandated that all schools across the state install CCTV cameras within a month. Announced by School Education Minister Deepak Kesarkar, the directive emphasizes that failure to comply could result in severe penalties, including the revocation of the school’s operating license.
This swift action follows widespread protests triggered by the alleged sexual abuse of two young girls in a Badlapur school near Mumbai. A school attendant was arrested in connection with the case, sparking outrage and demands for stronger safety measures in schools.
The government’s directive requires private schools to comply by installing CCTV cameras in strategic locations on their premises. The aim is to enhance the security of students, teachers, and staff, ensuring a safer environment for everyone. To support this initiative, the state’s education department has allowed the use of five percent of the funds allocated to schools from the District Planning and Development Council for establishing these CCTV networks in state-run and aided schools.
Moreover, the order specifies that CCTV footage must be reviewed at least three times a week, and principals are required to contact police if any suspicious activity is detected. Schools are also instructed to conduct thorough background checks of all employees with the assistance of local police stations. Additionally, schools must provide the police with details and photographs of their staff, ensuring a higher level of security and accountability.
To further safeguard students, the government has established a state-level school student safety committee headed by the School Education Commissioner. This committee, which includes six other members, will meet quarterly to review safety measures and submit regular reports to the state government.
In a related development, Cabinet Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha, who is also the guardian minister for Mumbai’s suburban district, has requested the deployment of female staff in girls’ washrooms across all schools. He emphasized that all school premises, except washrooms, should be monitored by CCTV cameras and that their safety should be regularly checked by beat marshals or patrolling police teams.
Lodha also stressed that sanitation staff working in schools must undergo police verification and that a female staff member should always be present in student transportation vehicles, such as buses, taxis, and vans. This comprehensive approach reflects the state government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of students across Maharashtra.
