New Delhi, Sep 12 (IANS): Over 50 children from various government schools Thursday interacted with municipal councillors from around the city to discuss ways to improve amenities in their schools.

The children complained about lack of quality in infrastructural conditions in schools, non-availability of playgrounds, lack of libraries and computer education, corporal punishment by teachers etc.

"There are stray animals around the school which may harm children. Cigarettes, tobacco products and even alcohol are freely available near schools," the students complained.

"We need to strike down the difference between a government school and a private school student. We are trying to change that and will make sure we accommodate everything that we have heard today," said Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) councillor Aaley Mohd. Iqbal.

Rakesh Kumar, another RLD councillor, agreed that quality of education in government schools has to be improved.

"Absence of clean water, furniture and playgrounds in schools are very alarming. We will address these issues soon," he said.

The children further said that they did not feel protected in the city.

Saying they were also scared to approach police, the children said their parents were not comfortable with them playing outside their homes after sunset.

The interaction was organised by the Delhi Child Rights Club, which meets once every month to discuss current social issues.