In a proactive step toward creating safer educational spaces for children, the Maharashtra Police, in collaboration with the Women’s Cell, conducted a powerful awareness session at a local school to educate students, particularly girls, about their rights, safety, and mental well-being. The event brought together law enforcement officers, educators, and students to promote a culture of protection and empowerment in academic institutions.
A central figure at the event was Abin C Raj, a distinguished educationist, behavior counselor, and school leadership expert, whose insights on student safety and mental health added critical depth to the session. Dr. Raj, who serves as the Academic Director of two leading schools in Maharashtra, shared actionable strategies on fostering student-centric safety ecosystems and the pivotal role of teachers in early intervention.
With over 11 years of experience across CBSE, IB, and IGCSE curricula, and prior school leadership positions in the UK and the Maldives, Dr. Raj drew on his global perspective to highlight the need for policies that place student well-being at the core of education.
“Schools must be spaces where students not only learn but feel protected, empowered, and heard. Child protection isn’t just a legal mandate—it’s a moral and educational imperative,” Dr. Raj stated during his address. He also emphasized the importance of teacher training in behavioral observation, peer-support mechanisms, and proactive engagement with students facing emotional distress.
His session included a breakdown of existing child protection laws, the psychological implications of harassment, and how institutions can build a climate of trust where students, especially girls, feel confident in seeking help. His emphasis on integrating mental health education into school curricula was echoed by educators and students alike.
Police officials from the local department delivered key insights on legal rights, cyber safety, self-defense, and reporting mechanisms, equipping students with both the knowledge and the confidence to act against harassment or exploitation. Officers encouraged students to treat law enforcement as an ally and stressed that any form of misconduct must be reported without hesitation.
Representatives from the Women’s Cell also shared resources available to girls in need of legal, emotional, or psychological support. They urged students to build awareness, foster mutual respect, and stand united against injustice. Pamphlets on helpline numbers, self-defense classes, and digital safety practices were distributed as part of the campaign.
The interactive session concluded with a vibrant Q&A, where students raised important questions about safety in public spaces, online behavior, and emotional well-being. Both police officials and Dr. Raj provided clear, empathetic responses, encouraging open dialogue and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and abuse reporting.
Dr. Raj’s participation, particularly as a recent Ph.D. graduate in Economics from Maryland State University and recipient of the Young Innovative Principal of the Year Award at the World School Summit in Dubai, added intellectual credibility and a forward-thinking approach to the event. His continued efforts in student behavior management, counseling frameworks, and inclusive learning make him a valuable voice in India’s evolving education ecosystem.
The event was widely appreciated by teachers and parents, who noted that the presence of law enforcement and academic leaders on the same platform sends a strong message about the shared responsibility of institutions in ensuring child safety.
As cases related to cyberbullying, harassment, and mental health challenges rise among students, such joint initiatives between the education sector and law enforcement agencies are becoming increasingly important. This session in Akola signals a step forward in the collective effort to empower young girls, reinforce protective measures, and build inclusive school environments.
The Maharashtra Police and Dr. Abin C. Raj intend to continue similar outreach programs in other districts, aiming to establish a replicable model of safety education across schools in the state.
