Police conduct meeting with educational institutions in the Nilgiris on student safety

The Nilgiris district police convened a district-wide coordination meeting with college administrations to discuss measures for student safety and welfare on higher education campuses. District Superintendent of Police S. Brinda addressed attendees, emphasizing the district's strict 'zero-tolerance policy' against drug consumption and trafficking near campuses.

College managements were instructed to closely monitor behavioral changes, physical or dental signs of substance abuse, and unexplained chronic absenteeism, with a requirement to report any suspicious activities to local police promptly.

In addition to combating drug abuse, colleges were reminded of their legal responsibility to maintain fully functional Internal Complaints Committees for addressing gender safety issues and promptly resolving student grievances. The police also stressed the importance of enforcing anti-ragging laws through active monitoring of campuses. Furthermore, colleges were urged to prioritize mental health support for students displaying signs of distress through proactive interventions and counselling services.

The police emphasized the need for colleges to promote road safety among student commuters, requiring them to wear helmets, possess valid driving licenses, and avoid speeding. Immediate security audits were mandated to ensure comprehensive CCTV surveillance covering all key perimeter, entrance, and exit points of campuses. This initiative is part of the district police's ongoing commitment to fostering strong working relationships with educational institutions, aiming to maintain a secure and law-abiding environment within campus premises.