NSCPCR holds child rights and protection awareness programme in Chümoukedima

DIMAPUR — The Nagaland State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NSCPCR), in collaboration with the District Child Protection Unit, Chümoukedima, organised a one-day awareness programme on child rights and child protection at the DC conference hall, Chümoukedima, on Tuesday.

According to a DIPR report, Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Chümoukedima, Polan John, in his address stated that awareness of basic child rights is a crucial programme.

“If we really want to take care of our children, then we need to protect them, every individual needs to be conscious about exploitation and the realms of taking care of the children in our society and needs to go towards eliminating the problem,” he said.

He mentioned that issues of exploitation are rising alarmingly, and, as reported, Dimapur and Chümoukedima have the highest cases. He said the protection of children and providing for their needs has become so important that the government has institutionalised not only juvenile board members but also institute commission members.

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He added that these mechanisms are in place to take care of children’s needs, protect them, and give justice. However, it is the community and all stakeholders in different sections of society who must be aware of these aspects to ensure rights are protected.

He informed that the government has not only set up institutionalised mechanisms but also a commission at the national level and in all the states, and that the commission for protection of child rights ponders these aspects with the DCP, district administration, CWC, and police on their duties and status report and provides guidance. He also highlighted the basic instructions set up by the commission.

Chairman of NSCPCR, Alun Hangsing, in his keynote address, stated that children are the backbone of the nation and the most important asset for developing a state or country.

“Everyone should understand that children have inherent rights to health, education and safety, and as stakeholders, it is a collective responsibility to safeguard them from abuse, neglect and exploitation through laws, policies and community action,” he said. He also urged individuals to reflect on how far they have taken responsibility to protect children’s rights.

He highlighted that in 2013, Nagaland had passed the Act but crimes against children still exist due to ignorance of the law and policy. “If we want a future generation to be bright and safe, then everyone should take equal responsibility in creating a safer environment now,” he said.

He stated that one of the critical components for the success of an advocacy or awareness campaign is the participation of individuals in the community. He stressed that it is not only the responsibility of the government or administration but also of stakeholders who will drive the change process.

He also pointed out that with the advancement of technology, social networks today are a significant voice for basic child rights. The application of technology, he said, can go further in advancing advocacy, enhancing digital awareness, developing safe websites for children, and using data analytics to strengthen awareness about communication.

Resource persons from NSCPCR delivered detailed presentations on various topics. Legal consultant Lichani Murry spoke on an overview of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, highlighting adoption rules.

Member NSCPCR Aying Wangsha spoke on rights of children and education vis-à-vis the Right to Education (RTE) with emphasis on child labour. Member NSCPCR Akumla Longchari presented on understanding and strengthening the POCSO Act towards a safer future for children.

A brief report on child-related cases in the district was delivered by DCPO, Chümoukedima, Nikito Zhimomi.