CBSE pushes for installing, regular monitoring of CCTV cameras in school premises
The decision comes under the Manual on Safety and Security of Children in Schools issued by the NCPCR
By Sri Lakshmi Muttevi
CBSE pushes for installing, regular monitoring of CCTV cameras in school premises
New Delhi: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has amended Chapter 4 (Physical Infrastructure) of the Affiliation Bye-Laws, 2018, mandating the installation and regular monitoring of CCTV cameras in school premises.
The decision comes under the Manual on Safety and Security of Children in Schools issued by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR).
CBSE secretary Himanshu Gupta, in a public circular, said the manual defines school safety as creating a secure environment for children from their homes to schools and back, covering all aspects of protection, including abuse, violence, psychological concerns, natural and man-made disasters, fire hazards, and transport safety.
The manual also emphasizes the importance of emotional safety, noting that emotional distress in children often goes undetected by teachers and parents. It warns that issues like bullying can lead to long-term psychological harm, including low self-esteem and daily anxiety about personal safety.
The Board stressed that every child has a constitutional right to live with dignity and receive education in a safe and nurturing environment. It further highlighted that all individuals in a school ecosystemāincluding teachers, special needs assistants, students, visitors, and contractorsāplay a vital role in maintaining a safe and secure atmosphere.
According to officials, the new clause seeks to address two key aspects of student safety: protection from external threats and promotion of overall well-being, particularly concerning bullying and other implicit dangers. The Board emphasized that these risks can be effectively managed through a combination of vigilant staff and modern surveillance technology.
As per Clause 1(X) of the NCPCR manual:
1. CCTV systems in schools are to be regularly maintained and monitored.
2. The school should install high-resolution CCTV Cameras with audio-visual facilities 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 with real-time audio-visual recording.
3. These CCTV cameras must be equipped with a storage device with the capacity of holding footage of at least 15 days. It shall be ensured that a backup of a minimum days is preserved, which may be accessed by the authorities, if required.
