Karnataka Colleges Get New Safety Mandate

The Department of Technical Education in Karnataka has mandated comprehensive student safety measures across its affiliated colleges, responding to a recommendation by the Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights. This directive requires colleges to appoint qualified psychological counselors and implement a digital and cyber safety policy to protect students from abuse and exploitation.

Adolescence is recognized as a critical developmental stage, necessitating government protection as per international conventions and Indian laws. The circular emphasizes the strict implementation of the Karnataka State Child Protection Policy and the formation of Child Protection Committees. Colleges must establish Standard Operating Procedures for reporting sexual offenses and put in place a Code of Conduct for staff and students.

Administrative actions include mandatory annual adolescent health, sexual safety, and legal awareness programs. Furthermore, a parent-student-counselor meeting is required each semester. As part of 'Open House', all students will visit their nearest police station annually. Skill education will be made mandatory for personality and self-defense development.

Support measures involve establishing Peer Support Groups and Buddy Systems for mutual psychological assistance. Colleges must conduct regular mental health screenings to identify stress, anxiety, depression, and suicidal tendencies. A Confidential Grievance Redressal Mechanism will be established to ensure students can lodge complaints securely.