Supreme Court Implements Guidelines to Safeguard Student Mental Health

The Supreme Court of India has issued a set of comprehensive guidelines aimed at protecting the mental health of students in educational institutions, including schools, colleges, and coaching centres. This decision, made on **October 6, 2023**, follows increasing concerns over student suicides in the country. The guidelines were introduced during a hearing related to the tragic case of a student who died under suspicious circumstances after falling from her hostel terrace while attending NEET coaching at **Aakash Byju’s Institute** in **Vishakhapatnam** in **July 2023**.

In a ruling by a bench comprising Justices **Vikram Nath** and **Sandeep Mehta**, the court outlined **15 binding directions** to ensure a safer educational environment for students. The apex court mandated that all states and Union Territories implement regulations within two months that establish student protection norms and grievance redressal mechanisms for private coaching centres.

The court has also called for the establishment of district-level monitoring committees headed by District Magistrates. These committees are tasked with overseeing the implementation of the new guidelines, conducting inspections, and addressing complaints related to student welfare. Furthermore, the **Union of India** is required to submit a compliance affidavit within **90 days**. This affidavit must detail the steps taken towards implementation, coordination with state authorities, regulatory advancements, and progress on monitoring mechanisms.

In its ruling, the Supreme Court emphasized that until appropriate legislation or regulatory frameworks are developed by the relevant authorities, educational institutions must adhere to the following guidelines to protect students’ mental health. Among the key directives, institutions are required to maintain optimal student-to-counsellor ratios. This initiative aims to ensure that students have access to necessary support, especially during examination periods and critical academic transitions.

The Supreme Court’s guidelines also call for dedicated mentors or counsellors to be assigned to smaller groups of students. This approach is designed to provide consistent, informal, and confidential support, which is crucial for students facing academic pressures and personal challenges.

These developments represent a significant step towards addressing the mental health crisis among students in India. By establishing clear regulations and support systems, the Supreme Court aims to foster a safer and more supportive educational environment for all students. The importance of mental health in academic success cannot be overstated, and these measures are expected to create a positive impact across educational institutions nationwide.