L-G orders comprehensive school audit for POCSO compliance, directs heightened security

Lieutenant-Governor (L-G) Taranjit Singh Sandhu has directed a citywide audit of all schools in the national capital to verify adherence to the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The order, communicated through a statement from his office on Wednesday, follows a high-level review meeting held on Tuesday with senior officials from the Delhi Police, and the Departments of Women and Child Development, Education, and Transport.

The POCSO Act, enacted in 2012, provides a robust legal framework to safeguard children from sexual abuse, harassment, and exploitation. It mandates stringent norms for institutions, including schools, to create a safe environment and ensure prompt reporting and redressal of complaints. The L-G’s audit aims to systematically evaluate the ground-level implementation of these provisions across Delhi’s schools.

During the meeting, Mr. Sandhu asked the authorities to identify gaps in the enforcement of child protection norms and take immediate action against institutions found violating the guidelines. He specifically instructed the Education Department to ensure strict compliance with all POCSO requirements. A key measure includes a directive that every school must maintain a dedicated Child Protection Committee (CPC) that convenes regularly to monitor safety-related issues, address concerns, and raise awareness among students and staff.

To reinforce safety around educational institutions, the L-G directed the Delhi Police to ensure a visible and sustained presence near schools and major student hubs. He emphasised a “zero-tolerance approach” towards any form of harassment or molestation of women and children, underscoring the need for swift and sensitive law enforcement.

Further, the police have been instructed to ensure that all women police stations are fully equipped and sensitised to handle complaints and cases related to crimes against women and children. This, the L-G noted, would enable a more empathetic and efficient response mechanism, encouraging victims to come forward without fear.

In a month-long initiative, July will be observed as ‘Child Protection Month’. The campaign will include comprehensive training programmes for teachers, school staff, and parents, focusing on child protection measures, recognising signs of abuse, and understanding legal obligations under the POCSO Act. Awareness drives will be conducted across schools to educate children about their rights and safety protocols.

The audit and accompanying measures reflect a systemic push to create a secure educational ecosystem. Experts have often highlighted that mere legislation is insufficient without regular monitoring and community participation. By integrating police support, administrative oversight, and public awareness, the L-G’s directives seek to build a multi-layered safety net for Delhi’s children.

Authorities have been given clear timelines to report compliance and audit findings. The move is expected to set a precedent for other states to emulate, reinforcing India’s constitutional commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of every child.