In a proactive move aimed at enhancing safety in schools, the Delhi High Court has directed the Delhi government to establish a detailed action plan and Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for responding to bomb threats and other similar emergencies.
The decision was made in response to a petition highlighting the recurrent bomb threats that have disrupted numerous schools across the city. Justice Sanjeev Narula emphasized the necessity of a clearly defined SOP that outlines the responsibilities of various stakeholders, including law enforcement, school administrations, and municipal authorities.
The court specified that these guidelines should be developed in consultation with all relevant parties to ensure comprehensive coverage and effectiveness. Justice Narula stated, “Once completed, the action plan and SOP shall be shared with all relevant parties. To ensure effective implementation, the Respondents (government authorities) must hold regular training sessions for school staff, students, and other stakeholders.”
Furthermore, the establishment of a grievance redressal mechanism was ordered to facilitate feedback and concerns from those affected by or involved in emergency situations. This feedback loop is intended to allow for continuous improvement of the procedures based on real-world experiences and evolving threats.
The directives issued by the court include an ambitious timeline, urging the government to implement these measures within eight weeks. The court recognized the initial efforts by the Delhi government and Delhi police, who presented draft action plans and operational strategies during the hearings. However, it stressed the urgency of moving from draft to finalized protocols to prevent further disruptions and ensure the safety of schoolchildren.
Petitioner Arpit Bhargava had raised concerns about the ongoing threats and the apparent lack of a coordinated response strategy, which he argued put the safety of children at risk. In acknowledgment of his concerns, the court also permitted Bhargava to submit detailed suggestions for the action plan and SOP, which the government is required to consider seriously.
