Jharkhand HC directs government to inspect, renovate schools, says student safety cannot be compromised

The Jharkhand High Court has directed the state government to inspect government schools across the state, assess their condition and take steps for repairs, renovation and modernization, stressing that student safety and education cannot be compromised.

A division bench comprising Chief Justice M S Sonak and Justice Manoj Prasad instructed officials from the concerned department to examine government schools and identify the need for repairs, renovation and modernization. The court directed the authorities to initiate immediate measures wherever required.

The directions were issued while hearing a suo motu public interest litigation registered on August 10 last year. The proceedings were initiated after the court took note of news reports concerning the poor condition of the historic Zila School located in central Ranchi.

During the hearing, the bench noted that several government schools in Jharkhand were operating with only one teacher. It also observed that students in some institutions were attending classes in buildings that were not considered safe.

“There can be no compromise with the safety and education of children studying in government schools,” the court said.

The High Court emphasized that the government and the officials responsible for school administration have a moral duty to provide students with a safe and secure environment that supports their education.

The court's directions cover an assessment of the infrastructure and condition of government educational institutions, followed by appropriate repair, renovation and modernization measures.

The matter has been scheduled for further hearing on Nov 5.