The Government of Maharashtra’s School Education and Sports Department has issued a new set of comprehensive safety and security guidelines for all schools across the state. This covers every medium and management type, including government, private, aided, and unaided institutions.
Objective of the Maharashtra School Safety and Security Guidelines
The initiative follows the Bombay High Court’s directions in the wake of recent incidents highlighting student safety concerns.
These guidelines, issued under Government Resolution No. Sankirn-2025/Pr. Kr.119/SD-4 dated 13 May, 2025, aim to ensure a safe, supportive, and inclusive learning environment for every student in Maharashtra.
Key Measures for Maharashtra School Student Safety and Security
1. Implementation of the POCSO Act, 2012
Schools must ensure strict adherence to the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012.
- Any sexual offence against a minor must be immediately reported to the local police or Special Juvenile Police Unit.
- Failure to do so will invite legal action against responsible authorities.
2. Student Awareness and Complaint Systems
- Schools must display details of POCSO e-Box and CHIRAG App for reporting complaints.
- A child helpline number (1098) should be visibly displayed in all schools.
- Complaint boxes should be installed and checked regularly by designated committees.
3. CCTV Surveillance
- All schools must install CCTV cameras in strategic locations like corridors, entry gates, playgrounds, and outside washrooms.
- The footage must be reviewed periodically by school management.
4. Staff Background Verification
- Police verification of all teaching and non-teaching staff is mandatory before appointment.
- Contractors and outsourced staff (including transport and housekeeping) must also undergo background checks.
5. School Transport Safety
- All school buses must have CCTV cameras and GPS tracking.
- Each bus must have a female attendant.
- Drivers should be verified for their driving record and undergo periodic alcohol/drug testing.
6. Formation of Committees
Schools must establish the following committees:
- Student Safety and Security Committee.
- Sakhi Savitri Committee for women and child protection awareness.
- Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) to ensure parental involvement in safety initiatives.
7. Infrastructure and Hygiene
- Separate, clean toilets for boys and girls are compulsory.
- Girls’ washrooms must have sanitary napkin dispensers and incinerators.
- Schools must ensure adequate lighting and drinking water facilities.
8. Cyber Safety and Digital Awareness
- Schools must conduct sessions on cyber hygiene, digital privacy, and responsible online behaviour.
- Students and parents should be made aware of cyber crime reporting mechanisms and safe internet practices.
9. Counselling and Emotional Support
- Every school must appoint trained counsellors or designate teachers trained in counselling through the Maharashtra State Council of Educational Research and Training (MSCERT).
- Regular awareness programmes on stress management, good touch-bad touch, and mental health should be held.
Accountability and Monitoring for Maharashtra School Student Safety and Security Guidelines
The circular specifies multi-level monitoring mechanisms:
- District Education Officers will review compliance reports from schools.
- Divisional Deputy Directors of Education will compile these reports for submission to the Directorate of Education.
- Schools failing to comply may face disciplinary or administrative action, including withdrawal of recognition.
In Summary
The Maharashtra School Education Department’s 2025 Safety Circular reinforces the government’s commitment to safeguarding every child’s right to a safe, inclusive, and nurturing education environment.
Schools are expected to implement these directives immediately and ensure full compliance through regular audits and awareness initiatives.
What’s your take on these new safety measures? Share your thoughts or suggest other steps schools could take to ensure students’ safety. Let’s discuss in the comments below!
Source
Official Circular by Maharashtra School Education, click here to read.
Kindly note that any and all information is subject to change as per the Maharashtra School Education Department, Education Department, and Government of India.
