CCTV Installation Mandatory in All CBSE Schools
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has directed all affiliated schools to install CCTV cameras in key areas of their campuses to ensure student safety. As per the new regulations, high-resolution CCTV cameras with audio-visual recording capabilities must be installed in all prominent areas, including entry and exit points, lobbies, corridors, staircases, classrooms, laboratories, libraries, canteen areas, store rooms, playgrounds, and other common areas. Toilets and washrooms are exempt from CCTV surveillance.
Updated Affiliation Bylaws
CBSE Secretary Himanshu Gupta stated in a public circular that the board has updated its Affiliation Bylaws 2018 to include this new provision under Chapter 4, which pertains to physical infrastructure requirements for affiliated schools.
Storage and Monitoring Requirements
The circular mandates that the CCTV cameras must support real-time recording and be linked to a storage system that can retain footage for a minimum of 15 days. Schools are also expected to maintain a backup of this footage and make it available to authorities when required.
Reference to NCPC Guidelines
CBSE cited the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) safety manual, which defines “school safety” as ensuring a secure environment for children from home to school and back. This includes protection from abuse, psychosocial issues, violence, disasters, accidents, fires, and more.
The manual also highlights the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance of CCTV systems in schools to safeguard against miscreants, bullying, and to ensure children's holistic well-being.
Government Directive
The central government has also directed states to implement school safety guidelines to create secure educational environments across India.