Patna, 04 February (ABN) Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister Samrat Choudhary on Wednesday issued directions that the presence of a female warden for 24 hours is mandatory in all girls' hostels across the state in view of the safety of girl students.

Mr. Choudhary said in a statement issued today that for the development of society and empowerment of women, it is essential for girls and women to be educated and self-sufficient. He said the Bihar government is continuously working for the development of women. The government believes that women should have a safe environment in schools, colleges, workplaces, and residential areas. To ensure that women can live their lives with equal opportunities and respect without any obstacles, necessary guidelines have been issued by the Home Department.

Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary said that new guidelines have been issued for girls' hostels and lodges operating across the state. He said that now, registration of every girls' hostel and lodge will be mandatory. A complete record of all hostels in every police station will be maintained so that information can be obtained immediately if needed. The responsibility has been entrusted to the Women Help Desk. Mr. Choudhary said that the presence of a female warden for 24 hours will be mandatory in all hostels. Additionally, police verification of all employees, including wardens, guards, cooks, and cleaning staff, has been made compulsory.

He said that for security, CCTV cameras will be installed at the main gate, corridors, dining areas, and the entire premises of the hostel, whose recording will be kept safe for at least 30 days. He informed that proper lighting, better sanitation arrangements, strong doors and locks, and iron grills in windows will be mandatory in hostels.

The Deputy Chief Minister said that the name and mobile number of every person visiting the hostel, along with their Aadhaar number, will be recorded in the visitor register. The entry of men in residential areas will be completely prohibited. Emphasis has also been laid on installing a biometric system to ensure the presence of students and staff at night. He said that informational posters related to local police stations, Women Help Desk, Abhyam Brigade, and 112 number will be displayed in hostels to deal with emergency situations. Students will also be made aware of the security features of the 112 India app.

Mr. Choudhary said that the police, Women Help Desk, and Abhyam Brigade will jointly conduct regular inspections of hostels. Immediate action will be taken if any suspicious or criminal activity is reported. He clarified that there will be no compromise on the safety of girls and all these guidelines will be strictly enforced.