Nodal Teacher: The School Education Department of the West Bengal government has initiated a significant measure to ensure safety and harmony within school premises. Following a directive from the Supreme Court, the state has mandated the appointment of a designated ‘Nodal Teacher’ in every primary and secondary school to manage issues related to street dogs. A notification regarding this was issued on January 30, 2026, by the Directorate of School Education.
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Implementation of Supreme Court Guidelines
This administrative move stems directly from a Supreme Court order dated November 7, 2025. To comply with the apex court’s guidelines regarding the safety of street dogs and the security of citizens, the state government is enforcing a structured monitoring system at the school level. The department has categorized this implementation as a matter of urgency.
Roles and Responsibilities of the Nodal Teacher
A specific teacher in each school will be assigned the role of ‘Nodal Teacher’. Their duties will include:
- Liaison with Authorities: Maintaining constant coordination with local authorities (such as municipalities or panchayats) regarding street dog management.
- Monitoring Hygiene: Ensuring the school premises remain clean and free of food waste that might attract stray animals, alongside monitoring the general situation.
- Ensuring Safety: The teacher must balance the safety of the students from street dogs while simultaneously ensuring that the animals themselves are not harmed or subjected to cruelty.
- Accountability: The appointed teacher will be solely responsible for ensuring that the Supreme Court’s directives are strictly adhered to within the school campus.
Strict Deadline for Reporting
District Inspectors (DIs) of schools across all districts have been instructed to circulate this notice immediately. Schools must act fast, as the department has set a strict deadline. A compliance report, detailing the steps taken and the appointment of the Nodal Teacher, must be submitted by February 6, 2026. This tight schedule highlights the priority the government is placing on this issue.
