DGP directs educational institutions to secure gates, corridors and parking areas to prevent thefts, bullying and fightsSchools, colleges and private coaching centres across Gujarat have been directed to install high-resolution CCTV cameras at entry and exit points, corridors and parking areas under the Public Safety Act (PSA). Director General of Police GS Malik has instructed all city police commissioners and district superintendents of police to ensure strict compliance with the rules.
Malik said the move was necessary not only to prevent thefts but also to address incidents of student violence and bullying, particularly targeting girl students, inside and around educational campuses. He said installing CCTV cameras outside private properties and commercial establishments was mandatory under the PSA and directed officers to ensure that all educational institutions, including private tuition classes, complied with the norms without delay.
Theft and security lapses
The directive follows a break-in at a school in Manekbaug, under the Satellite police station limits, where a thief targeted parked two-wheelers and stole 13 mobile phones kept in their boot spaces and glove compartments.In another incident, the absence of usable CCTV footage hampered an inquiry into a campus accident.
A Class 8 student at a city school suffered a deep cut on his hand that required 15 stitches. However, the school cited a technical glitch when asked to provide the security footage, prompting the District Education Officer to intervene.
The new directive specifically requires cameras to cover vehicle parking bays. Police officials also expect the measure to help prevent underage students from illegally riding two-wheelers.
Focus on vulnerable areas
Parking lots, corridors, entry and exit gates, and other blind spots have been identified as priority areas for surveillance. The aim is to prevent vehicle-related thefts, underage driving and fights near campus gates.Institutions must ensure that cameras cover gates, parking areas and entry and transit routes. They must also maintain records of CCTV maintenance and conduct periodic safety audits.
Teams from local police stations and the District Education Office will inspect CCTV installations at schools and colleges across Gujarat. Institutions that fail to comply with the PSA directives may face show-cause notices and regulatory fines.