8th annual child protection day observed at Cachar in a befitting manner

March 4: Coinciding with the rest of the state, 8th Annual Child Protection day was observed in Cachar. To celebrate the occasion, a programme was organized by the District Child Protection Unit, Cachar in collaboration with State Child Protection Society Assam under the aegis of Cachar Administration at the auditorium of Cachar Zilla Parishad here on Friday.

Inaugurating the event in presence of Cachar DC Keerthi Jalli and other dignitaries, Silchar MLA, Dipayan Chakraborty said, “On 4th of March in the year 2014, child protection day was observed for the first time in our country and Assam was the first state to observe this occasion in order to secure the future of children”. While emphasising on the context of protection of child right, MLA  Chakraborty said, “There should be specific target to develop the plight of the children, be it street children or from other downtrodden section of the society. We want to bring a change in the lives of the children those who are the victims of ethnic conflict and other such circumstances. We are hopeful that these activities will help in bringing a change in the lives of children.”

 MLA Dipayan Chakraborty also laid emphasis on strengthening the adoption process and protecting children from labour and trafficking. He spoke at length on various schemes taken by central and state government for welfare of children and women. He promised to set up a shelter home for children during his tenure and
announced one time financial assistance of Rs 2,00,00 to the Nibedita Nari Sangstha on the occasion. In addition to that, he also promised to donate a vehicle for smooth movement for Protection of Human Trafficking.

In her address, Cachar DC Keerthi Jalli highlighted various aspects of child protection including illicit child trafficking, child labour, child abuse and role of guardians, society, government in protecting children from such menace. She appealed to all in the society to come forward to create a crime-free environment where each and every child could enjoy their childhood without any hesitation and fear. DC Jalli further stated that the person who will provide information regarding child related problems in the district will be given Rs 1,000. She also talked about fixed deposits and scholarship for the children so that they can utilise the amount for further education after they attain 18 years of age.

Earlier, in her welcome address, incharge District Child Protection Officer Nabanita Hazarika said, “Many children are victims of child abuse, child marriage, bonded labour and the primary cause is poverty, illiteracy and lack of accessibility to facilities provided by govt. District Child Protection unit, Cachar is committed to provide access to vital social services and fair justice systems – starting at birth. They reach out to the most vulnerable children, including those with disabilities, girls and boys who have been placed in alternative care, children uprooted by conflict, poverty and disaster or those who may become victims of child labour or trafficking or recruited into armed groups,” added Hazarika.

District social welfare officer, Saswati Som said that social welfare department and District Child protection office will work together for the upliftment of the children and is committed towards the development and future of children. Deputy Superintendent of Police, Kalayan Das and Advocate on POCSO and representative of District Legal Service Authority, Poulomi Nag spoke about child protection right and sexual harassment of children.

Later, an art competition was held. Songs and drama were also performed by the members of child protection unit on the occasion. Gifts and necessary toiletries were also handed over to the three shelter homes as token of appreciation.