DC Chumoukedima, Polan John, NCS, addressing at the One-day Awareness Programme on Child Rights & Child Protection at DC's Conference Hall, Chumoukedima on September 30.
NSCPCR stresses community role in preventing child exploitation
CHÜMOUKEDIMA, SEPTEMBER 30 (MExN): 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 here on Tuesday at the DC Conference Hall.
The programme aimed to sensitise the community and stakeholders on safeguarding children from abuse, neglect, and exploitation, and to emphasise the role of individuals alongside institutional mechanisms in ensuring their safety and well-being.
Deputy Commissioner of Chümoukedima, Polan John, NCS, said awareness of basic child rights is crucial to protect children effectively. He noted that cases of exploitation are rising alarmingly, with Dimapur and Chümoukedima reporting the highest numbers. John highlighted that while the government has institutionalised mechanisms such as Juvenile Board members and Commission members to protect children and provide justice, community awareness and active participation remain essential.
“Efforts should be made by every individual to ensure the safety, well-being and rights of the children,” he added.
Chairman of NSCPCR, Alun Hangsing, in his keynote address, stressed that children are the backbone of the nation and a state’s most important asset. He said safeguarding children’s inherent rights to health, education and safety is a collective responsibility of the government, administration, community, and families. Highlighting the passage of the child rights Act in Nagaland in 2013, Hangsing noted that crimes against children persist due to ignorance of the law and policy.
He urged community participation in advocacy campaigns and underscored the role of technology and social networks in advancing awareness, promoting safe digital spaces, and using data analytics to strengthen communication on child rights.
Resource persons from NSCPCR delivered detailed presentations on various topics. Legal Consultant Lichani Murry spoke on the Juvenile Justice (Care & Protection of Children) Act with emphasis on Adoption Rules.
NSCPCR member Aying Wangsha discussed children’s rights, education, and child labour under the Right to Education Act. Member Akumla Longchari addressed understanding and strengthening the POCSO Act for a safer future. A brief report on child-related cases in the district was presented by DCPO Chümoukedima, Nikito Zhimomi.
