Agartala, May 26, 2025: In a major push for enhancing student safety, the Tripura government has made it mandatory for all private schools in the state to install CCTV cameras, warning of stern action against institutions that fail to comply. The state’s directive was disclosed in an affidavit submitted to the Tripura High Court on May 8, during a hearing on a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) related to school safety.

The affidavit stipulates that private schools must install CCTV surveillance at entry and exit points, along with other critical areas within school premises. Of the 484 private schools in Tripura, the state informed the court that a majority have complied with the order, while 37 schools have cited financial constraints but assured compliance in the near future.

The PIL is being heard by a division bench comprising Chief Justice Aparesh Kumar Singh and Justice Biswajit Palit. Advocate Kundan Pandey filed the PIL, with Senior Advocate Somik Deb serving as Amicus Curiae. Advocate General Shaktimoy Chakraborty, along with Pinki Chakraborty, is representing the state.

During a meeting held on April 28 at Nazrul Kalakhetra in Agartala, private school authorities were also advised on other essential measures, including clean drinking water, separate toilets for boys and girls, and anti-drug initiatives. According to the affidavit, all private schools now have functioning toilets and drinking water facilities. However, only 334 schools attended the April meeting, prompting the state to instruct officials to follow up with the 116 absentees.

District-wise compliance shows a varied picture: West Tripura has 85 out of 103 schools adhering to the CCTV directive, while Sepahijala, Khowai, Gomati, Unakoti, and Dhalai have achieved full compliance. South Tripura and North Tripura remain behind, with seven and twelve schools respectively yet to install the surveillance systems.

To reinforce compliance, a government memorandum issued on April 7 directed District Education Officers not to recommend non-compliant schools for recognition or upgrades. Schools that fail to adhere risk losing their recognition and having their UDISE codes cancelled.

Regarding government-run schools, the affidavit stated that out of 4,220 institutions, 610 have undergone repairs and another 178 are slated for renovation using Samagra Shiksha funds, pending release.

The next hearing in the matter is scheduled for the second week of August 2025, by which time the state has been instructed to present a comprehensive status report on all categories of schools—private, aided, and government.