Team Goemkarponn
MARGAO: The Maina-Curtorim Police have urged school counsellors to remain vigilant about students’ safety and report suspected cases of abuse, drug use and other activities that could put children at risk.
The advisory was discussed at a meeting attended by nine counsellors from schools falling under the jurisdiction of the Maina-Curtorim Police Station. The interaction focused on recognising warning signs among students and improving coordination between educational institutions and the police.
Counsellors were asked to pay attention to changes in students’ behaviour, attendance patterns and conduct, as these could indicate underlying difficulties or possible risks to their well-being.
The meeting also addressed concerns related to drug and tobacco consumption among students. Counsellors were briefed on identifying and reporting suspected substance abuse, along with suspicious individuals or activities in and around school premises.
Child protection was another key focus, with particular attention to the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) framework. Participants were advised to be alert to possible signs of abuse, harassment and other threats to children and to inform the police promptly when such concerns arise.
The police emphasised the importance of maintaining regular communication with schools so that issues affecting students can be brought to the authorities’ attention without delay.
The initiative aims to strengthen cooperation between schools and law enforcement agencies and encourage early reporting of concerns to help protect students.
