The Maharashtra School Education Department has recently reiterated its directive for all government schools to install CCTV camera circuits. This installation can be done either under the District Annual Plan or through other available funding provisions. The move comes in response to alarming reports of child abuse in both public and private schools across the city.
While many parents welcome the use of cameras as a safety measure, some have expressed concerns. They point out that CCTV systems may have blind spots, limited or edited footage, and inadequate monitoring. Additionally, sensitive areas such as washrooms and storage rooms often remain uncovered, which means children may still be vulnerable despite surveillance efforts.
According to the latest data from the Unified District Information System for Education, only 41,295 of Maharashtra’s 108,157 schools have installed CCTV cameras, leaving over half of the schools without any form of surveillance. It is important that all schools comply with government-mandated safety regulations.
Private and aided schools are making strides in implementing surveillance, but many zilla parishad and civic-run schools continue to lag behind. Surveillance acts as both a deterrent and a means to verify claims, helping to identify culprits in certain cases. Given its proven effectiveness in curbing crime on the streets, adopting reliable surveillance systems in schools is essential.
Funding allocation is critical to enhancing surveillance. Schools must be proactive in procuring funds through available resources, even if upgrades occur in phases. However, the expansion of surveillance should be strategic and not overly dispersed to ensure effectiveness.
For schools that have already installed cameras, it is vital that the equipment is of good quality and properly maintained. Clear images are necessary for surveillance to serve its intended purpose effectively.
Beyond surveillance, educating children about harassment and encouraging them to speak out without fear is crucial. Schools should also strive to provide counseling avenues whenever possible. Ultimately, prioritizing safety must extend to the school syllabus itself, ensuring a comprehensive approach to child protection.
By committing to these measures, Maharashtra’s schools can create safer environments where every child feels secure and supported.
https://www.mid-day.com/news/opinion/article/schools-should-comply-with-surveillance-norms-23596002