Patna, February 5: In a decisive move to safeguard female students, Bihar Police Headquarters has rolled out comprehensive guidelines for all girls’ hostels and lodges across the state. Prompted by recent criminal incidents targeting women in such accommodations, these measures aim to create a secure environment for higher education pursuits.
Issued on February 4 by the Crime Investigation Department and Vulnerable Sections Division, the directives have been circulated to all district Superintendents of Police. The state government underscores that a safe atmosphere is crucial for women’s education and empowerment, aligning with constitutional rights under Articles 16 and 21 that guarantee equal opportunities and dignified living.
Key mandates include mandatory registration of every girls’ hostel and lodge operating within police station jurisdictions. A dedicated register at each station, managed by the women’s help desk, will document full addresses, owner details, and other essentials.
All hostels must appoint a female warden available round-the-clock. Police verification is compulsory for wardens, guards, cooks, cleaners, and all staff, with records maintained in the station register.
Robust security infrastructure is non-negotiable: high-resolution CCTV cameras with audio recording in main gates, corridors, dining areas, and premises, storing footage for at least 30 days. Adequate lighting, sturdy doors with internal bolts, strong locks, and iron grilles on windows are required. Room sizes and occupancy must comply with building codes, alongside stringent hygiene standards.
Visitor management is tightly controlled via a dedicated register capturing names, mobile numbers, and Aadhaar details. Male entry, including relatives, is banned in student living areas; meetings occur in separate visitor rooms. Biometric systems will track night-time presence of students and staff.
Prominent display of local police station contacts, women’s help desk, Abhaya Brigade, and emergency number 112 is mandatory in receptions and common areas. Students will be oriented on the 112 India app’s women safety features. Wardens must alert parents and police immediately on any emergency or suspicious activity.
Station House Officers, in coordination with women’s help desks and Abhaya Brigade, will conduct regular inspections. Daily visits by Abhaya Brigade teams will involve student interactions to identify issues, with swift legal action on serious violations. This proactive framework promises enhanced safety for Bihar’s aspiring female scholars.