Pune: Education commissioner Suraj Mandhare on Friday said that an education officer would inquire into any laxity by the college and its staff in following govt norms on child safety measures in the alleged rape of a 16-year-old student by two junior and two senior college students over six months in various places, including the premises of two adjacent city colleges. The victim filed a police complaint on Thursday prompting the education commissioner to initiate the inquiry. Mandhare emphasised that if the college and its staff are found to have violated govt guidelines on installation and maintenance of CCTV cameras or not reporting the matter to the police on time, appropriate action will be taken against them.
Meanwhile, the police have decided to launch a cyber security and awareness drive in all colleges to prevent such incidents. Mandhare said, "The police have taken cognisance of the matter, and their investigation is underway. In addition, if the college's administration is found to have violated govt guidelines, the education officer has been directed to visit the college and conduct an inquiry.
If the police investigation reveals that college officials delayed reporting the crime, they will be charged under the provisions of the POCSO Act. Meanwhile, govt is expected to issue a notification within a day or two outlining enhanced child safety measures for educational institutions." The Pune Police have said that while awareness on good touch, bad touch, and other .