Education is the cornerstone of national development, yet the quality and safety of education often vary based on a student’s location and economic background. To study these disparities and suggest reforms, Adi Shankara Foundation undertook the “One Nation, One Classroom” study under the leadership of Mr. Shubhankar C., Advocate and Chairperson of the Foundation. I had the privilege of being part of the study team alongside Pradeep Narasimha, Sakshi Paul, and Shreyas, under the guidance of Dr. Sanjeeve Gowda G.S. Our research highlighted serious concerns regarding educational infrastructure, safety standards, and the increasing commercialization of education at the grassroots level. The study team had earlier presented the report before His Excellency Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot, Hon’ble Governor of Karnataka, and discussed the broader vision of educational equity and reforms aimed at ensuring quality education for every child. The team also had the honour of presenting the report to Hon’ble Smt. Justice Anu Sivaraman, Judge of the High Court of Karnataka and Executive Chairperson of the Karnataka State Legal Services Authority (KALSA). During the interaction, the team highlighted the lack of safety measures and adequate infrastructure in many government schools. We also drew attention to several small private schools functioning in residential buildings without proper safety standards, playgrounds, laboratories, and other essential facilities. The team emphasized that every child deserves access to education in a safe and well-equipped environment. We submitted that the right to education must be accompanied by the right to safety and dignity, which form an integral part of Article 21 of the Constitution of India. The Executive Chairperson was requested to consider measures through KALSA and the District Legal Services Authorities (DLSAs), including periodic visits to schools, assessment of safety and infrastructure standards, and legal awareness initiatives to safeguard students’ rights and welfare.

“One Nation, One Classroom” envisions an India where quality, safety, and equal opportunity in education are not privileges but rights guaranteed to every student.

Monika P.
Member, Study Team, Adi Shankara Foundation