Nagaland Police host sensitisation programme on child rights

NSCPCR highlights state’s commitment to safeguarding child welfare

DIMAPUR — Nagaland Police, in collaboration with the Nagaland State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NSCPCR), organised a one-day sensitisation programme on ‘Child rights and child protection’ at the conference hall, PHQ, Kohima, on August 8.

Addressing the event, chairman of the Nagaland State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NSCPCR), Alun Hangsing, highlighted the state’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, a DIPR report stated.

Hangsing stated that the NSCPCR, which was established in 2013 under the provisions of the Commission for Protection of Child Rights (CPCR) Act, 2005, is an autonomous statutory body mandated to monitor and ensure the proper implementation of various provisions under key child rights legislations.

He informed that these legislations include the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2005, the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009, the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012, the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2016, as well as other laws related to child trafficking, child adoption, child marriage, children in street situations, and the prevention of drug and substance abuse among children, along with measures against illicit trafficking and other forms of exploitation.

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He also mentioned that the state commission is tasked with analysing existing laws, policies, and practices to assess their compliance with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Hangsing further explained that the commission is also mandated to study state policies that have an impact on children, ensuring that such policies are consistent with international standards for the protection of child rights.

He added that the commission has the authority to undertake formal investigations when concerns are raised either directly by children or through individuals acting on their behalf.

According to the NSCPCR chairman, the Government of Nagaland is sincerely implementing all legislative provisions aimed at protecting child rights and creating a safe and secure environment.

Additionally, he emphasised that the commission is doing everything within its jurisdiction to streamline these efforts and to raise awareness among citizens about all laws concerning child rights.

Further, he maintained that the role of the police is crucial and important, not only in enforcing laws, maintaining order, and ensuring safety and security, but also in protecting rights and providing a safe environment.

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The presence of the police offers a sense of security and acts as an important pillar in shaping the future of society, he added.

Director General of Police Rupin Sharma expressed appreciation to the NSCPCR for organising awareness programmes on child protection and child rights across the state.

The DGP pointed out that such initiatives are vital, as many children remain unaware of their legal rights and protections. Raising such awareness, Sharma said, is essential in a time when crimes against children ranging from abuse and exploitation to trafficking and neglect continue to occur in various forms.

He emphasised that educating children about their rights and raising awareness among parents, guardians, teachers, and the broader community is vital in preventing such crimes and creating a safe, secure, and nurturing environment for children to thrive.

NSCPCR member Akumla Longchari spoke on the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, outlining its provisions for safeguarding children from sexual abuse and exploitation.

She emphasised the crucial role of the police in ensuring timely justice, highlighting the need for prompt case registration, sensitive handling of victims, and thorough investigations to secure convictions.

Legal consultant of NSCPCR, Lichani Murry, presented an overview of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, detailing its framework for the care, protection, and rehabilitation of children in need, as well as procedures for dealing with children in conflict with the law.

She stressed that the Act is designed to balance justice with the best interests of the child.

“The discussion aimed to enhance understanding among stakeholders, promote coordinated efforts, and reaffirm the state’s commitment to upholding child rights and effectively implementing protection laws. The event also witnessed a discussion on key child protection laws,” the report added.