Kolkata Law College Requests Funding for Enhanced Security Measures
A law college in south Kolkata, which was the site of a gang-rape incident involving a student last June, has formally written to the higher education department on Thursday. The college is seeking additional financial resources to install 115 closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras across its campus, as per recommendations from the Public Works Department (PWD). This move aims to bolster security infrastructure in the wake of the traumatic event.
PWD Recommendations and Revised Camera Count
The college received written communication from the PWD specifying that 115 cameras are necessary to achieve comprehensive surveillance coverage of the entire campus. During an initial assessment, PWD engineers had estimated a requirement of approximately 126 CCTV cameras, but this figure was subsequently revised down to 115 after further evaluation. Nayna Chatterji, the vice-principal of the college, clarified, "The number of CCTV cameras to be installed, according to the list we received from the PWD, was approved in the last governing body meeting. However, we have nothing to do with the budget, for which we are writing to the higher education department, mentioning the list we received from the PWD."
Previous Budget Proposal and Expanded Coverage Needs
Previously, the college had estimated that only 77 CCTV cameras were needed and submitted a budget proposal of Rs 12 lakh to the higher education department. Before granting final approval, the department instructed PWD engineers to conduct a thorough review of the security requirements. After a detailed inspection, the PWD team identified additional areas that required surveillance, such as the roof and storeroom, leading to the increased number of cameras.
Existing Security Infrastructure and New Guard Appointments
Currently, the college has three CCTV cameras that were installed in 2023, which are operational and monitor the main gate and adjacent areas. In addition to the camera installation, the college's governing body has approved the appointment of two new security guards through a private security agency, set to begin in April. This decision was made during a meeting held on March 11, with the night guard scheduled to work from 10 pm to 6 am and the day guard from 7 am to 3 pm. The college aims to hire trained personnel, potentially including ex-servicemen, to strengthen security further.
Background of the Incident and Legal Actions
The security enhancements follow a gang-rape case that occurred in June, where a student was assaulted on campus. In response, key accused Monojit Mishra, a casual staff member, along with former student Pramit Mukherjee (a second-year student) and Zaib Ahamed (a first-year student), were arrested. The incident prompted the college to reevaluate and upgrade its security protocols to prevent future occurrences and ensure student safety.
