CM moots fast-track courts to try sexual assault cases

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Friday announced a slew of measures for ensuring safety of schoolchildren.

“I will discuss with the Chief Justice of Karnataka to set up fast-track court to try sexual assault cases. Police will step up patrolling in areas around schools, particularly during entry and exit timings and also meet representatives of school management to monitor safety norms,” he said after meeting Primary and Secondary Education Minister Kimmane Ratnakar and officials here.

“Child sexual abuse cases will he handled at the level of the Assistant Commissioner of Police and only by experienced police officials,” he said, adding that the departments of education, information, and women and child welfare will launch campaigns to raise awareness on child sexual abuse.

Among others, he said that the Education Department officials will hold monthly meetings with parents and school managements.

Mr. Siddaramaiah also said provisions of the Karnataka Police Act will be invoked against erring schools affiliated to the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) if they violate safety guidelines.

Currently, the Department of Primary and Secondary Education does not have control over CBSE and ICSE schools. The department, which is trying to bring these schools under the Karnataka Education Act 1983, can only recommend to the central boards to initiate action in case of violation of state norms.

“Instances of Block Education Officers and Deputy Directors of Public Instruction not even allowed inside the big private schools have been common. Invoking the Police Act will help the government control over these schools,” the Chief Minister said.