In a significant step to improve student safety, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) on Monday made it compulsory for all affiliated schools to install high-resolution CCTV cameras with audio recording across their campuses.
The updated affiliation by-laws are designed to safeguard students from bullying, misconduct, and other potential threats.
According to a media report, the circular issued on Monday, the new rule amends Chapter 4 of the Affiliation Bye-laws-2018. “The school should install high resolution CCTV Cameras with audio visual facility at all the entry and exit points of the school, lobbies, corridors, Staircases, all the classrooms, labs, library, Canteen Area, store room, playground and other common areas except toilets and washrooms,” the circular noted.
It further mandates that the systems must have a storage capacity for at least 15 days of footage, and a backup of the same duration must be preserved for access by authorities if required.
‘Proof-less’ incidents
City school principals believe the upgrade will provide crucial evidence to resolve behavioural complaints. The lack of clear footage, especially with audio, has previously left serious allegations unresolved.
In one past case, a primary student went home with bruises and told his parents a teacher had hit him. As the school lacked a camera in the classroom, the claim could not be verified. In another incident, allegations of students bullying a peer could not be proven because it occurred in a camera “dark spot.”
Principals and parents react
Malobika Dutta, Principal of Kenalily School for Children, said that while they have cameras, the new rule mandates a necessary upgrade. “Having CCTV cameras at the school is extremely important for monitoring the safety and security of the students. Many a time, CCTV footage emerges as evidence for parents, students and staff for any untoward incidents,” she said.
Dr Jinen Shah, a metabolic physician whose child studies in a CBSE school, said the move goes beyond just security. “Being under CCTV with an audio recording facility will also bring in behavioural change in students as well as teachers for the better, eventually increasing the bond,” he said. “Apart from addressing security concerns, the high-resolution CCTV cameras may also address questions in case of medical emergencies in the school.”