On October 21, 2026, the Gujarat government mandated that all outsiders must secure prior written permission from the principal or head of a school before entering the premises of government educational institutions in the state. This directive, issued by the Office of the Commissioner of Schools, aims to enhance the security and privacy of students.
Visitor Authorization and Restrictions on Media
The circular exempts government officials who possess proper authorization for official duties from obtaining prior permission. All other visitors must provide their details in a visitor register upon entry. The policy prohibits photography, videography, interviews, audio recordings, or live streaming of students, teachers, or any
school activities without explicit written approval from the principal. Such permission is granted only for lawful purposes intended to protect students’ interests.
Controlled Access to Sensitive Areas and Principal’s Authority
Access to classrooms, laboratories, libraries, hostels, playgrounds, toilets, and other zones frequented by students requires prior written consent and compulsory accompaniment by a principal, teacher, or authorized school staff member. School principals retain discretionary power to deny entry to visitors if their presence is deemed detrimental to school security, discipline, student privacy, or the academic environment.
Mandatory Reporting of Violations
The circular instructs immediate reporting to local police and educational authorities in cases of unauthorized entry, refusal to vacate premises on request,
unauthorized photography or videography, or any form of obstruction within school grounds. The enforcement seeks to prevent breaches that could compromise child safety or disrupt schooling.
Legal Foundations and Government Responsibility
The Gujarat government cites its special responsibility under the principle of ‘In Loco Parentis’—acting in place of a parent—to safeguard the welfare, dignity, safety, and privacy of children enrolled in government schools. The directive references Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees the right to life, dignity, and privacy for every child. It also aligns with the Supreme Court ruling in K S Puttaswamy (Retd) vs Union of India that recognizes privacy as
a fundamental right. In addition, the policy follows guidelines from the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), which mandates safe, secure, and child-friendly school environments free from exploitation and privacy violations.
Impact on Visitors to Gujarat Schools
Under the new rules, visitors to schools across Gujarat must obtain prior written consent from the institution’s principal or head before gaining access. Furthermore, when entering areas with student activities, visitors must be accompanied by authorized school personnel and register their visit. The circular explicitly prohibits unauthorized photography or collection of student information without permission, aiming to prevent privacy breaches.
The Office of the Commissioner of Schools
stated, “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.”
