UP govt responds to student protests with social media plan, 14-point checklist

The Uttar Pradesh government has responded to student protests across 40,000 basic and secondary schools by implementing a social media tracking plan and a 14-point checklist. This follows a recent surge in protests over basic facilities, with students blocking roads, marching to local offices, and occupying hostels until their concerns were addressed.

The Education department has instructed officials to monitor social media for misleading information and ensure genuine complaints are dealt with. Schools are required to meet essential criteria, such as providing safe drinking water, separate toilets, hand-washing facilities, blackboards, mid-day meals, electricity, and regular functioning of electrical equipment. Minor repairs and maintenance should be funded through composite grants.

Officials will also inspect school premises to address cleanliness issues, waterlogging during monsoon, and ensure students receive uniforms and that teachers show up for work. Safety concerns around school roads are being addressed through coordination with the Public Works Department and local bodies.

Additional safety measures have been prescribed for girls' residential schools, including secure environments, women security guards, hygienic toilets, and medical facilities. Regular communication between teachers, officials, parents, and students is emphasized through parent-teacher associations and the Holistic Progress Card.

The government also directed the overhaul of Jai Prakash Narayan Sarvodaya Schools, which have faced protests. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath ordered the recruitment of teachers and the establishment of clear management rules for these residential schools.