The Rajasthan government has issued new guidelines restricting the entry of outsiders into government schools without prior permission from the principal. The order also bans photography, videography, interviews, and live streaming inside school premises unless written approval is granted. Officials said the move is intended to protect students’ privacy, safety, and dignity in accordance with constitutional provisions and child protection laws.

The decision comes after the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) announced that its members would visit government schools across Rajasthan to inspect alleged poor infrastructure, shortage of teachers, and lack of basic facilities. Under the new rules, every visitor must register before entering the campus, and access to classrooms, laboratories, hostels, playgrounds, and other student areas will be allowed only when accompanied by authorized school staff. Principals have also been empowered to deny entry or seek police action against anyone violating these directions.

The order has sparked a political controversy, with the Congress accusing the BJP-led state government of trying to prevent the public from seeing the actual condition of government schools instead of addressing existing problems. Leader of Opposition Tika Ram Jully demanded that the circular be withdrawn, arguing that it would suppress transparency and accountability. The state government, however, maintains that the guidelines are solely aimed at ensuring children’s safety and protecting their privacy.