College protection committees to be established on all campuses

The Kerala Police have issued a circular announcing the formation of College Protection Committees in all higher education institutions in the State.

The committees are aimed at preventing increasing drug abuse among youth, tackling violence, cyberthreats and anti-social activities, ensuring immediate support during emergencies, and fostering healthy collaboration between college managements, students and the police.

According to the circular issued by the State Police Chief, the committee will be chaired by the college Principal and convened by the Station House Officer (SHO). It will also include student representatives, the ward councillor, PTA members and prominent persons.

The Social Policing Directorate will be responsible for coordinating, managing and supervising the functioning of the College Protection Committees. A State-level committee will also be formed to monitor the activities of the committees. The panel will comprise the State Police Chief, Excise Commissioner and the Directors of Collegiate Education, Technical Education, and Women and Child Development Departments.

Additionally, district-level subcommittees under the supervision of District Police Chiefs will also be constituted. A district-wide WhatsApp group will also be created for coordination and sharing of best practices.

The committees will work to empower students and staff, prevent substance abuse, address safety concerns and conduct awareness campaigns on topics such as cyber safety, substance misuse and mental health. They will also organise road safety awareness programmes, disaster management training and self-defence programmes for women.

The panels is also envisaged to provide a platform for students to report complaints without fear and ensure timely resolution.