The Gujarat government has mandated that all outsiders must secure prior written permission from the principal or head of educational institutions before entering any school premises in the state. This directive came into effect starting October 2026, applying to all schools across Gujarat.
Visitor Permissions and Documentation Requirements
Exemptions to this order include only government officials who are duly authorized and engaged in official duties without requiring prior permission. All other visitors must record their details in the school’s visitor register upon entry. The Education Department has also prohibited any photography, videography, interviews, audio recording, or live streaming of students, teachers, or school activities without
obtaining prior written authorization from the principal. Such media and information collection activities are permitted solely for lawful purposes.
Restricted Access to School Facilities and Principal’s Authority
Access to sensitive school locations—including classrooms, laboratories, libraries, hostels, playgrounds, and toilets—is restricted to visitors with prior written permission. Visitors in these areas must be accompanied by the principal, a teacher, or an authorized school official. The circular empowers principals to bar entry to any visitor whose presence may compromise school security, discipline, privacy, or the academic environment.
Reporting and Enforcement Procedures for Unauthorized Entry
Cases of unauthorized entry, refusal to vacate school premises, unauthorized photography or videography, and obstruction of school activities must be reported immediately to
the local police and education authorities. The circular tasks school administrations with strict vigilance to uphold these rules.
Legal Basis and Child Protection Obligations
The policy rests on the Gujarat state government’s responsibility under the principle of ‘In Loco Parentis’, assuming protective duties equivalent to those of a parent for children in government schools. The circular cites Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees every child’s right to life, dignity, and privacy. It also references the Supreme Court judgment in K S Puttaswamy (Retd) vs Union of India, which affirmed the right to privacy as fundamental. Additionally, the directive aligns with the National Commission for
Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) guidelines, which require schools to maintain a safe, secure, and child-friendly environment to prevent exploitation and privacy violations.
According to the Office of the Commissioner of Schools circular, “No visitor shall collect information about an individual child or publish the child’s identity or photograph without the prior written permission of the Principal, particularly where such activity is not in the best interests of the child and may affect the child’s safety, dignity or privacy.”
