New Delhi, September 24, 2024 – In a landmark directive aimed at fortifying the safety of school-going children nationwide, the Supreme Court of India today ordered all states and union territories (UTs) to implement the Centre’s guidelines on the safety and security of children in schools. This directive comes in response to a plea by the NGO Bachpan Bachao Andolan, highlighting the urgent need for child safety measures following incidents like the sexual assault in Badlapur, Maharashtra, and elsewhere.
Key Points from the Supreme Court’s Directive:
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Implementation Mandate: The court has explicitly directed chief secretaries or equivalent officers to ensure these guidelines are put into practice, emphasizing the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) to monitor compliance.
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Background: The guidelines, issued in October 2021 by the Ministry of Education, were developed in compliance with an earlier Supreme Court order. They detail the accountability of school management for child safety, setting potential penalties for non-compliance, including fines and loss of school recognition.
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Role of Parents: The guidelines also underline the critical role parents play in ensuring schools adhere to these safety measures.
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NGO’s Role: Bachpan Bachao Andolan’s intervention was pivotal, pointing out the lack of implementation in most states, urging the court to take action.
Importance of the Directive:
This directive signifies a monumental step in child rights and security. By mandating the implementation of these guidelines, the Supreme Court has not only responded to recent incidents but has also set a precedent for safeguarding children, recognizing that their safety in educational environments is foundational to their rights and development. The involvement of NCPCR ensures a structured oversight, potentially preventing future lapses in child safety standards.
