Supreme Court Issues 15 Guidelines to Protect Student Mental Health
The Supreme Court of India has laid down 15 detailed guidelines to improve the mental health support system in schools, colleges, universities, and coaching centres across the country. The move comes amid growing concerns over student suicides, particularly in high-pressure academic environments.
Common Policy for All Institutions
The court has directed all educational institutions to adopt a uniform mental health policy based on national frameworks. The policy must be revised every year and displayed clearly on websites, notice boards, and internal communication channels.
Mandatory Counsellors and Mentors
Institutions with 100 or more students must appoint at least one qualified mental health professional—either a counsellor, psychologist, or social worker. Smaller institutions must partner with local professionals. A student-mentor system should also be introduced to provide regular emotional and academic support.
Staff Training on Mental Health
All staff members, including teachers and hostel personnel, must undergo training twice a year on handling student stress, identifying signs of mental distress, and providing first-line support. Special emphasis will be given to supporting students from marginalised backgrounds, including those from reserved categories, LGBTQ+ communities, and those with disabilities.
Safe Campuses and Reporting Systems
Hostels must install tamper-proof ceiling fans and restrict rooftop access to prevent self-harm. Public shaming, batch-wise segregation, and excessive academic pressure will not be allowed. Institutions must also provide confidential systems for students to report issues such as bullying, discrimination, and harassment.
Promoting Awareness and Recording Support
Mental health helpline numbers must be prominently displayed in classrooms, hostels, and common areas. Schools and colleges must regularly organise life-skills workshops, emotional wellness sessions, and parental sensitisation programmes. All wellness-related efforts should be documented and published annually.
Monitoring and Accountability
States and Union Territories have been asked to notify rules for coaching centres within two months. District Magistrates will lead local monitoring committees. The central government must submit a compliance report within 90 days. These guidelines will remain in force until new national laws or regulations are enacted.
