Patna: The Bihar government has introduced a sweeping set of safety regulations for girls’ hostels and private lodges, making registration compulsory and tightening surveillance and staffing norms across the state. The move mandates round-the-clock female wardens, CCTV monitoring and strict checks on visitors, in what officials describe as a step towards ensuring safer living spaces for female students.
Deputy chief minister Samrat Choudhary said the new rules were designed to safeguard the dignity and security of young women pursuing education. He argued that women’s empowerment depends not only on access to schools and colleges but also on safe residential environments. “Students must feel secure where they live and study,” he said, adding that the government would not compromise on safety standards.
Under the revised guidelines, every girls’ hostel and lodge must be formally registered with local authorities. Police stations will maintain detailed records of these facilities, while women’s help desks will be responsible for quick access to information during emergencies. The administration said the system would help monitor hostels more effectively and respond faster to complaints.
Hostels must also deploy a female warden on duty at all times. All staff members, including guards, cooks and housekeeping workers, will require mandatory police verification before being hired. Authorities say this measure is intended to prevent unauthorised or unverified personnel from working in close proximity to residents.
Security infrastructure has been strengthened as well. CCTV cameras will be installed at entrances, corridors and common areas, with footage stored for at least 30 days. Adequate lighting, reinforced doors and locks, and iron grills on windows have been made compulsory. Visitor registers recording identification details will be maintained, and male entry into residential sections will be strictly prohibited. Some hostels may also introduce biometric attendance systems for residents and staff.
Emergency preparedness forms another key part of the plan. Hostels must display contact information for local police, women’s help desks, the Abhaya Brigade and the 112 emergency helpline, while students will be informed about safety features on the 112 India app. Officials said police teams and special units would conduct regular inspections, warning that negligence or violations could invite immediate action.
The government said the measures reflect a broader push to improve accountability and create secure educational spaces for women across the state, with enforcement expected to begin immediately.
