Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Shillong: The Meghalaya State Legal Services Authority and the District Legal Services Authority have launched a new child protection initiative called Ka Jingkyrmen. The project comes after officials identified 29 POCSO cases in Mawlai Block and 26 in Mawryngkneng Block. It focuses on preventing offences, boosting legal rights awareness, and tightening community protection mechanisms under the 2012 POCSO Act.
Chief Justice of the High Court of Meghalaya, Revati Mohite Dere, launched the program this Friday. She noted the initiative responds to judicial findings, including cases involving adolescents in romantic relationships. She warned that youth must grasp the law regarding minors. "Consent given by a person below 18 years of age is not a defence under the POCSO Act," she stated. The Chief Justice added that such cases often lead to arrests, pregnancies, and school dropouts.
Commissioner and Secretary of the Social Welfare Department, Pravin Bakshi, confirmed the project will prioritize community sensitisation and government coordination. He highlighted existing programs like Mission Vatsalya and Child Care Institutions that offer shelter and rehabilitation. The state has already linked the Child Helpline to the 112 emergency system and the 181 women's helpline.
Justice H.S. Thangkhiew of the High Court of Meghalaya said the project aims to simplify legal information for vulnerable communities. Outreach will cover child rights, good and bad touch, consent, and digital safety. Authorities will promote specific helplines, including 15100 for legal services and 1930 for cybercrime. The initiative spans multiple agencies, including the police, education, health, and local village institutions, to curb abuse and keep children in school.
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