Karnataka govt mandates CCTV installation in all educational institutions

The Karnataka higher education department has emphasized the importance of installing CCTV cameras across all educational institutions.

This directive, issued in a circular dated May 19, follows concerns raised by a citizen who cited media reports about drug use among students and the rise of anti-social activities such as drug abuse, sexual harassment, and ragging in schools and colleges.

"There's already a standing order that educational institutions should have CCTVs. This is only to reiterate the same. While most colleges have CCTV, some government colleges are yet to have it because of a lack of funds. To curb the menace of drugs, there have to be sustained efforts to keep students safe," said KG Jagadeesha, principal secretary of higher education.

In line with the circular, Visvesvaraya Technological University (VTU) has instructed its affiliated colleges to organize special seminars for students, ensure CCTV cameras are installed in key locations, and maintain regular monitoring of student activities.

VTU also directed colleges to appoint counselors to support victims of anti-social behaviour.

Additionally, colleges must display boards in visible areas warning that "consuming drugs, alcohol, or tobacco; involving oneself in ragging or sexual harassment; and other anti-social activities are strictly prohibited."

Colleges are required to take strict action if such incidents occur and report them to the university.

"The VTU circular is based on the government circular. Almost all our affiliated colleges have CCTV on campus. They should monitor it regularly to curb illegal activities," said VTU registrar BE Rangaswamy.