The Delhi government has pulled up schools in the Capital for their “half-hearted” compliance with a Directorate of Education (DoE) order asking for submission of quarterly safety reports.
The schools were also slammed for not following prescribed self-inspection rules to strengthen security readiness and alertness.
“Despite serious endeavours by the DoE, other agencies and the High Court, the schools, which include some government schools, have responded with only half- hearted compliance. In case of some recognised private unaided/aided schools, the status of compliance is even more worrisome,” read a government circular.
In a strongly-worded warning, the government said: “In such a grim scenario, it is felt that a half-hearted approach will not work any more. If our schools are serious about providing foolproof safety and security to children, then they must ensure compliance with the directions issued.”
The schools have been told to submit online safety reports to the DoE. Heads of government schools and estate managers have been warned of disciplinary proceedings in case of non-compliance. Aided and recognised private unaided schools have been warned that there recognition may be withdrawn in case of repeated and deliberate non-compliance.
The circular noted that there was no respite in the number of physical, emotional and sexual assaults on school children, both on the premises of institutions and outside. In fact, such incidents are on the rise, it read. The schools were further reminded that they have to set up safety sub-committees and ensure organisation of monthly ‘safety walks’.
