Role of media stressed to strengthen child protection mechanism

Alun Hangsing and Dzuvinuo Theunuo along with other officials from DIPR and NSCPCR during a meeting in Kohima on Tuesday.

• DIMAPUR — With an objective to strengthen child protection mechanism particularly with regard to the role of media, the Nagaland State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NSCPCR) led by its chairman, Alun Hangsing, held a meeting with the director and senior officials of the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) at the latter’s directorate on Tuesday.
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• Speaking at the meeting, Hangsing emphasised the responsibility of media in ensuring the rights, dignity and safety of children, particularly in the way they are represented and discussed in public domains. He highlighted that violations, whether intentional or due to lack of awareness, could have long-lasting psychological and social impacts on children.

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• A DIPR report stated that Akumla Longchari, member of NSCPCR, elaborated on key legal frameworks that govern child protection in the media, including the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, which prohibits the disclosure of identity of children involved in abuse cases and the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, which mandates the protection of children's rights in all circumstances including media coverage.
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• The director of IPR, Dzuvinuo Theunuo, acknowledged the insights shared by the Commission and expressed commitment to work collaboratively to uphold child protection standards across all public communication platforms. She stated that the department would explore actionable steps to build a child-sensitive media environment in Nagaland, where children’s privacy is protected and their rights are uphold.
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• The secretary of Social Welfare and member secretary of NSCPCR, Yongchingkumla; member of NSCPCR, Aying Wangsha; and legal consultant of NSCPCR, Lichani Murry, also attended the meeting.