Bihar Govt Tightens Security Norms for Girls’ Hostels After NEET Aspirant’s Death in Patna

Patna: Following the shocking death of a NEET aspirant girl living in a hostel in Patna, the Bihar government has come under pressure and has now issued strict new safety guidelines for girls’ hostels and lodges across the state.

In the wake of the incident, the state government has recommended a CBI investigation into the case. Meanwhile, the Police Headquarters has directed all Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) and Superintendents of Police (SPs) to ensure immediate compliance with the new advisory issued for women’s hostels.

The guidelines have been made mandatory for all girls’ hostels and lodges operating in Bihar.

24-Hour Women Warden Mandatory

According to the new instructions, every girls’ hostel must ensure the presence of a woman warden round the clock. Additionally, police verification of all hostel staff—including wardens, security guards, cooks, and cleaning personnel—has been made compulsory.

CCTV Surveillance and 30-Day Footage Storage

To strengthen security arrangements, CCTV cameras must be installed at all key locations such as the hostel main gate, corridors, dining areas, and the campus premises.

Authorities have also mandated that CCTV footage must be stored safely for at least 30 days, so that it can be used for verification and investigation whenever required.

Government Aims to Ensure Safe Environment for Women

Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister Samrat Choudhary said that the education and self-reliance of girls and women is essential for social development and women empowerment.

He stated that the Bihar government is continuously working for women’s welfare and is committed to ensuring a safe atmosphere for women in schools, colleges, workplaces, and residential areas.

He added that the Home Department has issued necessary instructions to ensure that women can live with dignity, respect, and equal opportunity without fear.

Registration of Hostels Now Compulsory

The Deputy Chief Minister further announced that registration of every girls’ hostel and lodge across the state will now be mandatory.

Each police station will maintain a complete database of all hostels in its jurisdiction to ensure quick access to details during emergencies. This responsibility has been assigned to the Women Help Desk.

Biometric Attendance and Visitor Record System

The new guidelines also emphasize improved infrastructure and monitoring. Hostels must ensure proper lighting, cleanliness, strong doors and locks, and iron grills on windows.

A strict visitor register system has been introduced, where the name, mobile number, and Aadhaar number of every visitor must be recorded.

Entry of men into residential room areas has been completely prohibited. Authorities have also recommended the installation of biometric systems to monitor the night attendance of students and staff.

Emergency Contact Posters and Regular Inspections

To deal with emergency situations, hostels must display posters containing contact information of the local police station, Women Help Desk, Abhaya Brigade, and emergency helpline number 112.

The government has directed that police teams, Women Help Desk officials, and Abhaya Brigade will conduct regular inspections of hostels and lodges.

Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary warned that any suspicious or criminal activity will invite immediate strict action. He stated clearly that the safety of girls will not be compromised under any circumstances, and compliance with these guidelines will be enforced strictly.