CBSE Mandates CCTV Cameras in Schools: Essential Safety Guideline Update
The latest update from the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), as of July 21, 2025, mandates the installation of high-resolution CCTV cameras with real-time audio-visual recording in all its affiliated schools to enhance students' safety.
Key Points of the New CBSE Safety Guidelines
- Mandatory CCTV installation: Required at all critical areas such as entry and exit points, corridors, staircases, classrooms, laboratories, libraries, canteens, storerooms, playgrounds, and other common areas.
- Real-time recording: CCTV cameras must have audio-visual recording capability, ensuring a comprehensive surveillance system.
- Privacy protections: Toilets and washrooms are explicitly excluded from any CCTV coverage.
- Footage storage: Schools must maintain a minimum of 15-day storage backup for all recorded footage with an accessible backup available to authorities.
- Compliance responsibility: Schools are responsible for not only the installation but also the continuous functioning, regular maintenance, and compliance with these CCTV norms.
These guidelines amend Chapter 4 (Physical Infrastructure) of the Affiliation Bye-Laws-2018 and align with the recommendations of the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) Manual on Safety and Security of Children in Schools, emphasizing a secure and monitored environment for students' emotional and physical safety.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the new safety guidelines implemented by CBSE?
CBSE has mandated the installation of high-resolution CCTV systems in schools with a minimum footage retention period of 15 days.
2. Where must the CCTV cameras be installed?
CCTV cameras must be installed at all critical locations including entry and exit points, classrooms, and playgrounds, among others.
3. Are there any areas exempt from camera installation?
Yes, toilets and washrooms are excluded from the surveillance requirements.
4. How long must the CCTV footage be retained?
Schools are required to retain CCTV footage for a minimum of 15 days.
5. Is real-time audio-visual recording mandatory?
Yes, the installation of CCTV systems must include real-time audio-visual recording capabilities.
Official Documents and Downloads
For more information, you can access official resources and updates from CBSE below:
