Reshma Ravishanker

Atleast 60 preschools across Gujarat were shuttered by authorities on Friday after a surprise check found them lacking fire safety measures on premises.

The raids are continuing in the state and sources have said that atleast 60 preschools have been shuttered with no prior notice being served to them.

This comes in the wake of a horrific fire accident that took place at Rajkot on May 25 claiming the lives of 27 people, including nine children. The incident took place was a gaming zone was gutted down by a fire that is suspected to have started with some welding work sparks.

Investigations found that the arcade, which was frequented by families and children in large numbers was operating without fire safety equipment or clearance.

Harsha Girish Ramaiya, Founder and director, Small Wonders Playhouse said that the raids on preschools come in the wake of the Rajkot incident. “Authorities have raided malls, public spaces, preschools, and schools to check for fire safety measures. The government has started surveillance, and this is part of the same. No warning was given to the preschools and surprise inspections were conducted. The raids are ongoing. So far, at least 60 have been shut,” she added.  

Meanwhile, Manan Choksi, executive director of Udgam School for Children said that although there have been no government reports so far, information gathered from schools had it that these raids were conducted in Gandhinagar.

“This appears to be a knee jerk reaction by the government. As far as preschools are concerned, there are no set guidelines unlike schools as they have not registered with the education department. However, they must follow minimum protocols. As is required, they must have fire extinguishers bearing the safety of children and follow any protocols that the municipality expects them to. Having all measures like sprinklers might not be a viable option for the smaller preschools.

“This is a societal issue. Not one stakeholder is to be blamed. One is to also question why parents of these children have not cared so far. In several cases, although there are extinguishers, they are not maintained up to date. Those must be red flagged,” added Choksi. 

Also read: What parents expect from a preschool for their kids