L-G orders citywide audit of schools for POCSO compliance

Lieutenant-Governor (L-G) Taranjit Singh Sandhu has ordered a comprehensive audit of schools in the Capital to assess if they are complying with the provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, according to a statement issued by his office on Wednesday.

At a review meeting attended by senior officials from Delhi Police and the Departments of Women and Child Development, Education and Transport on Tuesday, Mr. Sandhu directed authorities to identify gaps in the implementation of child protection norms and take action against institutions violating guidelines.

The Education Department has been asked to ensure strict compliance with POCSO provisions, and every school has been directed to maintain a dedicated Child Protection Committee that meets regularly to monitor safety-related issues, a statement read.

‘Zero tolerance’

To improve security around educational institutions, the L-G directed the police to ensure a visible presence near schools and major student hubs.

He emphasised a “zero-tolerance approach” towards harassment and molestation of women and children.

Mr. Sandhu also instructed the police to ensure all women police stations handle complaints and cases related to crimes against women and children to enable more sensitive and efficient response mechanisms. Authorities were instructed to observe July as the ‘Child Protection Month’ and conduct a month-long awareness campaign, including training programmes for teachers, school staff, and parents on child protection measures.