Special Correspondent
Pune: In light of rising concerns over cybercrimes, substance abuse, traffic violations, and growing indiscipline among students, Pune City Police have announced a comprehensive year-long action plan to improve safety and discipline across educational institutions. The initiative aims to create a healthier academic environment while strengthening collaboration between police authorities, educational leaders, and parents.
The announcement was made during a seminar titled “Safe Horizons in Education,” organised by Pune City Police. The event was attended by several prominent figures, including Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar, Savitribai Phule Pune University Vice Chancellor Dr. Suresh Gosavi, Symbiosis founder-president Dr. S. B. Mujumdar, senior legal expert S. K. Jain, Symbiosis International University Pro-Chancellor Dr. Vidya Yeravdekar, along with senior officers Additional Commissioner Sanjay Patil, Additional Commissioner (Crime Branch) Pankaj Deshmukh, and Additional Commissioner Manoj Patil. Heads of various renowned educational institutions in Pune were also present.
Addressing the gathering, Commissioner Amitesh Kumar expressed concern over the increasing number of students involved in unsafe and illegal activities. He noted that objectionable content posted on social media has been contributing to a toxic and misleading environment for youth. The police have also observed incidents of students driving under the influence of alcohol and routinely violating traffic rules, posing a serious threat to public safety.
Another alarming trend highlighted by Kumar was the growing use of narcotic substances among students. He stressed that while police surveillance would increase, the role of parents is equally important in noticing behavioural changes and guiding their children. “Educational institutions must collaborate actively with the police and conduct regular awareness sessions for students,” he added.
Kumar also pointed out that despite strict regulations prohibiting the sale of tobacco and alcohol within a 100-metre radius of educational institutions, several such shops continue to operate illegally. While enforcement is the responsibility of administrative authorities, he urged educational institutions to report violations and take proactive steps in ensuring a safe perimeter around campuses.
During the seminar, Vice Chancellor Dr. Suresh Gosavi emphasised Pune’s global reputation as a prime education hub, with students arriving from various countries. He underlined the importance of maintaining discipline to uphold the city’s academic prestige.
Dr. S. B. Mujumdar reflected on the rapid transformation of Pune’s education ecosystem over the past fifty years and the growing diversity of student populations. He stressed the need for counselling centres in schools and colleges to provide emotional and behavioural support to students.
With this year-long initiative, Pune Police aim to foster safer, more disciplined educational environments and strengthen the bond between institutions, students, and law enforcement.
