Village Child Committees play vital role in protecting children, says DCPO Tuensang

DIMAPUR — Yangthriba Sangtam, DCPO Tuensang, highlighted the crucial role of Village Child Committees (VCC) in ensuring child protection at the village level, while stressing the need for immediate reporting in the case of orphans.

He was speaking at the programme organised by the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), Department of Social Welfare, Tuensang, on the role and responsibilities of Wards and Village Child Protection and Welfare Committee, at the DC Conference Hall on November 18, said an update from DIPR.

The ward unions should not take the law into their own hands but reported to the department, he said, adding that children below 18 years should be labelled as delinquents, not accused.

While outlining the structure under DCPU, including the Juvenile Justice Board (JJB), Child Working Committee, and SGDU, the official stressed the importance of village-level committees in creating awareness about child safety and protection, while discouraging the direct referral of child-related issues to the JJB.

He also addressed various issues such as child sexual abuse, child labour, illegal adoption, runaway children, child marriage, and substance abuse.

The programme was chaired by Lunang Lakiu, ADEO, DCPU, Tuensang. Akumba Yimkhiung, member CWC, delivered the welcome address, and Alemla Chang, member of JJB, of delivered the vote of thanks.

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