A state-level coordination meeting on child safety and protection was held in Dehradun, presided over by Dr. Geeta Khanna, Chairperson of the Uttarakhand State Commission for Protection of Child Rights. Representatives from the police department, District Probation Officers, Child Welfare Committees, and various NGOs participated in the meeting.
Key highlights of the meeting:
• In-depth Discussion: Detailed deliberations were held regarding challenges related to child trafficking, child begging, child labour, sexual exploitation, and missing children in the state.
• Directives to the Police: The Commission directed the police department to provide detailed records of missing children from the past three years. Additionally, instructions were issued to utilize the Education Department’s ‘tracking ID’ during police operations to identify school dropouts and to share information about these operations with Child Welfare Committees, ensuring effective follow-up for rescued children.
• Emphasis on De-addiction: Dr. Geeta Khanna laid special emphasis on housing children struggling with substance abuse in a separate facility, distinct from adults, for their rehabilitation.
• Coordination: The Commission emphasized that better synergy among departments and prompt action are essential to curb rising crimes against children.
The Chairperson reiterated that providing a safe and secure environment for every child is the state’s top priority and a collective responsibility.
