All state schools to now have complaint boxes

With a view to ensure safety and security of students, the state government has now asked schools to install complaint box/es in its premises. The decision, which was announced by a government resolution (GR) on Friday, makes it mandatory for all schools in the state- government — aided, unaided, and private — to install complaint boxes.

The complaint box has to be installed in a way that is accessible to students. "Every week this box should be opened in the presence of the school principal, local police, parent representatives, and student representatives on the last working day. If police personnel are unavailable, the box can be opened in front of the other representatives" states the GR.

As per the regulation, schools 'should address internal issues at their level, while more serious issues which require police intervention should be redirected to the police and the appropriate authorities'. Complaints with respect to sexual harassment and abuse by female students need to be put forth in the women's grievance redressal cell, while other cases of abuse should be placed in front of the School Management committee. "Anonymity needs to be maintained with respect to the name of the complainant" states the GR.

The Deputy Director of Education in each region would have to send a regular report about these complaints and their status to the Education officer.

Principals said that the decision is a welcome step at a time when several cases of sexual violence are coming to the fore in schools.