All schools should install CCTV cameras before the new academic session begins, state told Bombay HC. Prosecutor Prajakta Shinde informed Justices Revati Mohite Dere and Neela Gokhale that a govt resolution (GR) based on a committee’s report will be issued within one week so that “schools get sufficient time to comply with the same, including installation of CCTV cameras, before the next academic term starts”.
The HC is hearing suo motu PIL following the Aug 2024 alleged sexual assault of two minors in a Badlapur school. The committee, set up by the education department and led by two retired HC judges, submitted its report to HC in Feb.
Its recommendations for safety and security measures for schoolchildren included mandatory cameras, separate washrooms with male and female attendants, children to be taught to distinguish between ‘good touch, bad touch’, and cybercrime awareness. The judges batted for sex education and counselling.
Shinde said considering May vacation and that teachers won’t be available, eight weeks’ time should be given to schools to comply with the GR. She added that suggestions by amicus curiae advocate Rebecca Gonsalves regarding cyber and physical bullying will be incorporated in the GR.
