Himachal Pradesh Police launch School CONNECT safety initiative

The Himachal Pradesh Police have introduced the ‘School CONNECT – School Safety and Student Protection Initiative’ to enhance security and child protection within educational institutions. Launched in Shimla, the program aims to improve coordination between law enforcement, schools, and parents to prevent physical and digital threats.

Director General of Police Ashok Tewari chaired a meeting with representatives from 27 schools to discuss operational security measures. These include mandatory CCTV surveillance at entry and exit points, strict visitor verification, access control, and regular security assessments. The initiative also emphasizes the importance of staff verification and school transportation safety.

Beyond physical security, the program focuses on protecting students from digital risks such as cyberbullying, online grooming, sextortion, and deepfakes. Law enforcement officials also addressed the need for awareness regarding the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and the prevention of drug abuse, specifically targeting the spread of narcotic substances like chitta.