Karnataka HC directs government to standardize safety norms across schools

The Karnataka High Court has directed the Principal Secretary of School Education and Literacy to draft a comprehensive action plan within six weeks, ensuring that government schools meet the same safety standards as private institutions. The court also mandated a detailed report outlining how state-run schools will comply with these requirements.

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As part of its directive, the court ordered the creation of an online portal on the department’s website. This platform will list mandatory safety requirements under various regulations, display compliance statuses of individual schools, and enable institutions to update their adherence to recognition conditions.

Justice Suraj Govindaraj issued the ruling while addressing a petition filed by the Organisation for Unaided Recognised Schools (OURS), Bengaluru, and other private unaided schools. The petitioners had challenged a 2022 departmental circular requiring schools to provide structural stability certificates, fire safety clearances, and approved building plans.

The court upheld the government’s authority to demand these certifications but noted uneven enforcement of safety norms. Acknowledging the petitioner-schools’ significant contribution to education, the court allowed them until the beginning of the next academic year to comply with all applicable municipal laws, building regulations, and other statutory requirements.

This ruling seeks to create parity in safety standards across government and private schools, ensuring a uniform and secure environment for students.