Pune: Installation of CCTV cameras, maintenance of grievance register boxes and regular awareness programmes by experts to strengthen child safety will soon be made mandatory in spiritual and religious educational institutes in Alandi.A special committee constituted by the divisional commissioner took the decision during a review meeting held in the temple town on Wednesday, following concerns over the safety of enrolled students.The meeting focused on preventing sexual exploitation and ensuring stronger protection measures for children studying in religious schools in and around Alandi. Officials said all institutes would be required to install CCTV surveillance systems across campuses and residential areas to improve monitoring and ensure greater accountability.Authorities also directed school authorities to place grievance or complaint register boxes on their premises so that students could safely report any form of harassment or misconduct.The committee emphasised strict implementation of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act in all schools. Officials said awareness about the law and child rights must be regularly communicated to the staff and students.Chief officer of the Alandi Municipal Council (AMC) and a member of the appointed panel Madhav Khandekar said, “Another key recommendation was to organise regular counselling and awareness sessions conducted by psychologists, medical professionals and child protection experts. The programmes will help students recognise inappropriate behaviour, encourage them to report abuse and provide emotional support if needed. “Authorities also discussed preparing a standard operating procedure outlining safety protocols for religious educational institutes. Once finalised, they would all be required to follow the guidelines.The meeting was attended by senior officials from the municipal administration, police officers as also education sector and child welfare authorities from Pune district.“Officials said the proposed measures aim to create a safer and more transparent environment for children studying in spiritual schools, while ensuring that institutes remain accountable for the wellbeing of minors under their care,” said Khandekar.“We want to value the rich legacy, retain the achievements and maintain the standard set by some of the esteemed spiritual institutes over decades. Many who have studied in the temple town have brought immense name and fame to it through their cultural acumen and thorough knowledge of the Warkari sect and saints,” said AMC president Prashant Kurhade.
