Kerala High Court Directs Finalization of Snakebite Prevention Guidelines in Schools

Comprehensive Draft Guidelines by Education and Health Departments Await Final Approval

In a significant move aimed at enhancing the safety of school environments in Kerala, the Kerala High Court has directed the finalization of comprehensive guidelines for snakebite prevention and management in schools. The draft guidelines, meticulously prepared by the Education and Health Departments, propose a multi-faceted approach to tackle the growing concern of snakebite incidents in educational institutions.

The case, Kulathoor Jaisingh v. State of Kerala, saw deliberations from a bench comprising Chief Justice Mr. Nitin Jamdar and Justice Shoba Annamma Eapen. During the proceedings, the court examined the draft guidelines, which emphasize environmental management, awareness, infrastructure improvements, and emergency readiness. These guidelines aim to create safer school environments and establish effective response systems.

Key measures suggested include regular cleaning and maintenance of school premises, structural repairs to eliminate potential snake hiding spots, and awareness campaigns for students and staff. The guidelines also mandate emergency preparedness drills, the display of emergency contacts, and coordination with health authorities to ensure the availability of Anti-Snake Venom (ASV) and trained personnel.

The Health Department has also contributed to the guidelines, focusing on immediate first aid, transportation, and clinical treatment for snakebite victims. The integration of snakebite education into school curriculums is proposed to foster long-term awareness and prevention.

The court has allowed stakeholders, including the Forest Department, Local Self Government Department, and the Institute of Virology, to submit suggestions. These will be reviewed by the Chief Secretary before finalizing the guidelines. The court has granted four weeks for this process, emphasizing the urgency of implementing these life-saving measures.

The case highlights Kerala's proactive steps in reducing snakebite incidents and fatalities, with data showing a decline in snakebite deaths over recent years. As stakeholders prepare to submit their inputs, the finalization of these guidelines promises to significantly enhance the safety protocols in schools across the state.

Bottom Line:

Draft guidelines prepared by Education and Health Departments for snakebite prevention and management in schools - Comprehensive measures include environmental management, student and staff awareness, emergency preparedness, collaboration with authorities, and policy surveillance.

Statutory provision(s): [No specific statutory provisions were mentioned in the judgment]

Kulathoor Jaisingh v. State of Kerala, (Kerala)(DB) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2762226