The recent molestation of school girls has shocked Goa. The sexual harassment complaints against teachers is a major concern among the parents. There is still no substantial changes on the ground in how schools operate and execute safety measures. With many schools across Goa are not having CCTVs in the common areas of premises or maintaining proper background checks for their staff and not hiring professional counsellors which is mandatory as per the guidelines. These safety measures should be available in all schools. Many schools have poor and ineffective management systems and lack basic rules and regulations that are understood and adhered to by all. There is a need to establish a permanent child safety monitoring committee to ensure the standards set by the authorities are duly implemented by schools. It is the obligation of the schools concerned to ensure compliance of directions issued by DoE. Schools must have robust policies in place to prevent and address sexual assault cases. The police should conduct weekly review of acquittal orders passed by the courts in cases involving crimes such as murder, rape, dacoity and narcotic dealings.
