Tamil Nadu Government has issued guidelines and protocols for online classes, keeping the safety of students in mind. The decision was taken after an increased number of complaints of sexual harassment of students by teachers. The guidelines are applicable for all types of schools belonging  to all educational board in the state, reads the notice.

Over the past few weeks, misconduct by teachers towards students have been reported from various parts of the state. Many students have also reported sexual harassment by teachers during online classes.

Taking cognizance of the increasing instances of the nature, the Tamil Nadu Government has released the guidelines and strict protocols that must be followed. Under the same, the schools have been directed to form a “Student Safeguarding Advisory Committee. The committee would include the School Principal, 2 Teachers, 2 PTA members, a management representative, a non-teaching staff and an external member.

Main purpose of the committee thus formed would be to review, monitor and recommend measures on all aspects of the students’ safety. A state level Central Complaint Centre or CCC would also be set up by the school education department. Any complaints received by the school have to reported to the CCC.

Apart from this, CCC would conduct random audits. All the online classes would be recorded and any of these online classes can be picked up for the random audit. Read Complete Guidelines and Protocols for Online Classes

Also, all students and teachers have been instructed to be ‘appropriately’ dressed for online classes. Safety boxes will also be put in school campuses for collecting feedback and complaints. Also, School Education Department would arrange for a comprehensive orientation programme will be organised for all stakeholders associated with the school to acquire a comprehensive understanding of provisions given in POCSO Act.