22/07/2025
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) on July 21 directed all affiliated schools to install high-resolution CCTV cameras with audiovisual recording capabilities across their campuses.
The cameras must be placed in key areas including classrooms, corridors, entry and exit points, staircases, libraries, laboratories, canteens, playgrounds, and other shared spaces — excluding toilets and washrooms. The footage must be stored for a minimum of 15 days and made available for official review when required.
The directive, which aligns with safety recommendations by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), highlights the need for a safe and emotionally secure learning environment. The CBSE cited the NCPCR manual, which identifies bullying and emotional harm as serious concerns alongside physical threats.
Schools must ensure regular maintenance of the surveillance systems and keep backup recordings as part of a broader safety compliance mandate. Non-compliance may affect their affiliation status.
CBSE also called for a collective effort by teachers, staff, students, and visitors to foster a vigilant and cohesive school environment.