IIT-Kharagpur Implements Stricter Campus Exit Protocols to Bolster Student Safety
In a significant move aimed at fortifying campus security and ensuring the well-being of its student community, the Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur has rolled out enhanced regulations governing student movements both within and outside the campus premises. The revised guidelines, which came into effect recently, introduce more rigorous monitoring mechanisms, particularly during nighttime hours, to address safety concerns and streamline coordination in case of emergencies.
Key Changes in Campus Exit Procedures
The updated rules stipulate that from now on, parents or guardians will be formally notified whenever their wards exit the campus between the hours of 10 pm and 6 am. This marks a notable shift from the previous policy, which had regulated exit timings from 11 pm to 5 am. The extension of the restricted window underscores the institute's proactive approach to mitigating risks associated with late-night movements.
Furthermore, students departing the campus during these specified hours are now required to meticulously record a comprehensive set of details before their exit. This mandatory log includes:
- Full name and roll number of the student
- Hall of residence along with room number
- Contact number of parent or guardian
- Intended place of visit
- Purpose of the visit
- Expected time of return
Upon returning to campus, students must promptly update their entry details, ensuring that the administration maintains real-time awareness of their whereabouts.
Strict Enforcement and Disciplinary Measures
A formal notice circulated on Tuesday emphasized that carrying the institute ID card is now mandatory and non-negotiable for any student wishing to leave the campus. The directive explicitly states, "No student shall be permitted to leave the campus without their institute ID card." Non-compliance with these regulations will be treated as a serious violation, potentially leading to disciplinary actions as per the institute's code of conduct.
Commenting on the rationale behind these stringent measures, Director Suman Chakraborty explained, "The notice has been issued to ensure the security of students. When a student exits the campus with any purpose, we are not in a position to monitor them. But at the same time, whenever the student faces any trouble or accident outside the campus, we cannot shirk off our responsibility. It is a concern, and to have coordination, we need to have the basic details of their visit and also need to inform the parents."
Student Perspectives and Existing Policies
While the institute has always maintained a policy framework for campus entry and exit, students note that adherence was previously more relaxed. A student remarked, "The institute always had a policy for entering and exiting the campus in place, but it was not strictly followed. Previously, the regulated hours were from 11 pm to 5 am, but now it has changed to 10 pm to 6 am. What is new is that parents will be intimated if students exit the campus during those hours."
Additionally, a research scholar clarified that certain longstanding guidelines remain unchanged. These include the requirement for students to obtain formal permissions from authorities for leaving the campus for extended durations, overnight stays away from campus, or other prolonged absences. The scholar stated, "The guideline stating that permissions from authorities need to be taken for leaving the campus, or staying overnight away from campus, or for an extended duration remained unchanged."
This comprehensive overhaul of exit protocols reflects IIT-Kharagpur's commitment to creating a safer and more accountable campus environment, balancing student autonomy with institutional responsibility in an era where security concerns are paramount.
