Srinagar, Jan 28: The Jammu and Kashmir government has ordered the formation of District Level Monitoring Committees across the Union Territory to oversee mental health protection and prevent student suicides.

Issued under Government Order No. 117 JK (GAD) of 2026, the move follows Supreme Court directions in Criminal Appeal No. 3177 of 2025 related to student mental health.

Each committee will be chaired by the Deputy Commissioner and include the Chief Education Officer, Chief Medical Officer, District Social Welfare Officer, and a civil society representative nominated by the Deputy Commissioner.

The committees are tasked with implementing Supreme Court guidelines, conducting periodic inspections in schools, and addressing complaints related to student mental health and suicide prevention. They are authorised to monitor compliance and ensure safeguards for student wellbeing are effectively enforced.

While the step has been welcomed, education stakeholders emphasize that its success depends on rigorous implementation, regular inspections, timely grievance redressal, and transparent follow-up actions. Copies of the order have been circulated to relevant departments, including School Education and Social Welfare.