Allahabad High Court Criticizes UP Government Over School Children's Safety

The Lucknow Bench of Allahabad High Court has admonished the Uttar Pradesh government for not ensuring the safety of school children as per the Supreme Court's 2009 guidelines in the Avinash Mehrotra case. The court demanded an explanation and hinted at further actions if discrepancies remain unresolved.

The Lucknow Bench of Allahabad High Court has expressed stern criticism towards the Uttar Pradesh government for failing to ensure the safety and security of school children, as mandated by the Supreme Court in the Avinash Mehrotra case.

The court has instructed the Uttar Pradesh chief secretary to assign a principal secretary-level officer to provide an explanation and submit an affidavit by September 5. Failure to satisfy the court with this affidavit could result in the chief secretary being summoned for a personal explanation.

The ruling came in response to a PIL filed by Gomti River Bank residents. Despite the state counsel presenting extensive records, the court found no substantive inquiry reports, only forms submitted by school principals. Additionally, the court directed the joint commissioner of traffic police to ensure children are picked up and dropped off within school premises in certain areas.

(With inputs from agencies.)