In the wake of a tragic incident in Rajasthan where a school roof collapse resulted in the deaths of seven children and left many others injured, the Ministry of Education has directed all states and Union Territories to conduct immediate safety audits of all schools. The directive emphasizes the need for comprehensive measures to protect the physical and mental well-being of students.

The ministry's communication stresses that all schools and public facilities used by children and youth must undergo safety audits in accordance with national safety codes and disaster management guidelines. These audits must thoroughly assess structural integrity, fire safety, emergency exits, and electrical wiring.

The recent tragedy occurred at a government school in the Jhalawar district of Rajasthan, where a portion of the school building collapsed, burying students under the rubble. Preliminary reports suggest the building was in poor condition, and despite recent plastering work, concerns about its safety had been raised previously. Students had also warned teachers about visible cracks just minutes before the collapse, but their concerns were allegedly ignored.

In addition to the structural assessments, the Ministry of Education has also asked states and UTs to ensure that staff and students are trained in emergency preparedness, including evacuation drills, first aid, and safety protocols. The ministry also recommended strengthening collaborations with local authorities to conduct periodic training sessions and mock drills.

The directive also mandates that any dangerous situation, near miss, or incident involving potential harm to young individuals must be reported within 24 hours to the designated State or UT authority. Strict accountability should be fixed in cases of delay, negligence, or failure to act.

Furthermore, states and UTs have been asked to promote emotional well-being in schools through counseling services, peer-support systems, and community engagement. Parents, guardians, community leaders, and local bodies should be encouraged to be vigilant and report unsafe conditions in schools, public areas, or transportation used by children and youth.

The urgency of the situation is underscored by the fact that the advisory was issued as a matter of urgency, mandating structural assessments of schools and child-related facilities, training in emergency preparedness, and robust mechanisms for psychosocial support. The ministry's directive comes amid mounting concerns over student safety following fatal accidents in school buildings. Recent events, including a classroom ceiling collapse in Madhya Pradesh and a roof collapse in a school in Jharkhand, prompted the communication to States.

The local community has reacted with anger and protests, accusing the administration of negligence and claiming they had repeatedly warned officials about the deteriorating condition of the building. In the aftermath, five school staff members were suspended, and a high-level inquiry has been initiated.