Two weeks after the alleged stabbing of a Class 10 student by a classmate in Ahmedabad, city schools have rolled out stricter safety and counselling measures.
Schools told The Indian Express they have adopted random and more frequent bag checks, banned sharp objects including scissors, strengthened anti-bullying policies, introduced peer-support programmes, and made counselling sessions for students, parents, and teachers a regular practice.
Many institutions are also closely monitoring CCTV footage, forming disciplinary committees with student and parent members, and training teachers to spot and address suspicious behaviour.
“This incident is a wake-up call. All teachers have been asked to stay alert and intervene at the slightest sign of trouble,” said Mrugen Shah, principal of Prakash Higher Secondary School.
While school leaders emphasise vigilance, counsellors caution against excessive restrictions, urging schools to focus on mental health discussions and proactive counselling. “Mental health, which was earlier sidelined, is finally being recognised. Counsellors need to work with teachers and parents, not in silos,” said Dr Nivedita Ganguli, educationist and mental health expert.
These steps were also discussed at a recent chintan baithak of around 1,800 private schools convened by the Ahmedabad District Education Officer.