The state home department of Bihar has issued comprehensive new safety guidelines for all girls' hostels and lodges across the state, implementing stringent security measures in response to growing concerns about women's safety in residential accommodations.
Mandatory Registration and Police Verification
Deputy Chief Minister and State Home Minister Samrat Choudhary announced on Wednesday that all girls' hostels and lodges must now undergo compulsory registration with competent authorities. The management of these facilities is required to maintain detailed records at local police stations, with specific responsibility assigned to officers in charge of Women's Help Desks.
Police verification has been made mandatory for all staff members, including wardens, security guards, kitchen personnel, and cleaning staff. This verification process aims to ensure that only individuals with clean backgrounds are employed in these sensitive environments.
Enhanced Surveillance and Access Control
The guidelines mandate the installation of CCTV cameras at strategic locations including main entrances, corridors, dining areas, and throughout the premises. Hostel managements must implement strict access control measures, prohibiting men from entering residential areas of girls' hostels.
Additional security features include:
- Adequate lighting throughout hostel premises
- Proper sanitation facilities meeting safety standards
- Strong doors with reliable locking mechanisms
- Iron grilles on windows for enhanced security
Regular Monitoring and Emergency Protocols
Police authorities, Women's Help Desks, and the Abhaya Brigade will conduct regular inspections to monitor compliance with security protocols. These teams will maintain vigilance over hostel operations and respond promptly to any security concerns.
For emergency situations, hostels must display prominent posters containing contact information for:
- Local police stations
- Women's Help Desk contacts
- Abhaya Brigade representatives
- The national 112 Helpline
Students will receive specific training on using the safety features of the 112 India mobile application, ensuring they can quickly access help during emergencies.
Background and Implementation
The decision follows the tragic case of a medical aspirant who was allegedly raped and died in a private hostel in Patna last month. After the Special Investigation Team failed to make significant progress, the case was transferred to the Central Bureau of Investigation.
The Additional Director General of Police for CID and Weaker Sections has communicated these guidelines to all Senior Superintendents of Police and Superintendents of Police across Bihar. Hostel managements must also implement biometric attendance systems for both students and staff during night hours, and maintain detailed visitor logs containing names, mobile numbers, and Aadhaar details.
Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary emphasized that immediate action will be taken against any suspicious or criminal activities, stating unequivocally that there will be no compromise on the safety and security of female students residing in hostels throughout Bihar.
