Haryana Orders Schools to Replace Neckties With Safer Alternatives

The Haryana State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (HSCPCR) has directed all schools across the state to phase out conventional neckties from school uniforms following the death of a seven-year-old boy in Bhiwani. The advisory applies to government, government-aided, private and recognised schools, urging them to either discontinue traditional neckties or replace them with safer alternatives such as clip-on or Velcro ties to reduce the risk of accidents.

The move comes days after a Class 2 student in Bhiwani reportedly died after accidentally strangling himself while playing with his elder brother's school tie. The incident prompted the Commission to review the safety risks associated with conventional neckties, particularly among younger children. Chairperson Tripti said similar accidents involving school neckties had previously been reported in Haryana's Sonipat district as well as in parts of Rajasthan.

According to the Commission, traditional neckties can pose a serious safety hazard during play or other school activities, especially when children use them carelessly or become entangled. "Sometimes, fatal accidents happen when children, while playing in a light mood, casually pick up these neckties," Tripti said while explaining the rationale behind the advisory. The Commission has recommended that schools adopt breakaway, clip-on or Velcro ties that can detach easily if pulled.

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The advisory has been issued with immediate effect, requiring educational institutions to review their existing uniform policies and take appropriate measures to enhance student safety. Schools have also been encouraged to create awareness among students, teachers and parents regarding the potential risks associated with conventional neckties and the importance of adopting safer alternatives.

The Commission's recommendations form part of a broader effort to strengthen child safety in educational institutions by identifying and addressing preventable hazards. While school uniforms are an important aspect of discipline and identity, the Commission emphasised that student safety should remain the highest priority when designing or revising uniform guidelines.

The Haryana government's response and the implementation of the advisory by schools will be closely watched in the coming weeks. If widely adopted, the policy could lead to a significant change in school uniforms across the state and may encourage other states to review similar safety measures to prevent avoidable accidents involving children.

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