State Commission for Protection of Child Rights Plays Key Role in Ensuring a Safe, Dignified and Bright Childhood

August 2026 : A safe, dignified and happy childhood is a fundamental right of every child. The State Commission for Protection of Child Rights is not merely an institutional forum for grievance redressal but an important mechanism working towards the holistic development of children. If the government, parents, teachers, police, voluntary organisations and society work together, it is possible to prevent abuse, exploitation and discrimination against children. Ensuring that every child receives a safe environment, equal opportunities and a bright future is a collective responsibility of the Commission and society.

State’s Commitment to Child Protection

Children are the future of the nation, and creating an environment conducive to their safety, dignity and overall development is a shared responsibility of the government and society. The State Commission for Protection of Child Rights works to ensure immediate protection and justice for children facing abuse, exploitation, discrimination, child labour, child marriage, sexual abuse, online harassment, denial of education or mental trauma.

Protecting the constitutional and legal rights of children, taking cognisance of their complaints and ensuring effective action through the concerned authorities are among the Commission’s key objectives.

Fundamental Rights of Children

Every child has the right from birth to life, protection, education, healthcare, nutrition, development and a life of dignity. Children cannot be discriminated against on the basis of caste, religion, gender, language, social or economic status, disability or any other factor.

Every child has the right to quality healthcare, education, social security, sports, recreation and participation in cultural activities, along with opportunities for the overall development of their personality, intellect and physical abilities.

The state and society are also responsible for preventing the kidnapping, trafficking, sale, economic or sexual exploitation of children, child labour and involvement in drug abuse. Children deprived of a family environment, as well as those with physical or mental disabilities, have the right to special protection, a dignified life and opportunities to participate actively in society.

Areas of Work and Responsibilities

The State Commission for Protection of Child Rights works at various levels to safeguard children’s interests. It investigates complaints relating to abuse, exploitation, neglect and discrimination and takes necessary action.

The Commission also monitors the implementation of laws, policies and government schemes related to child protection. Regular inspections are conducted at children’s homes, observation homes, special homes and other child-care institutions to ensure adequate facilities and protection of children’s rights.

It also works continuously on child protection, education, health and nutrition, prevention of child labour and child marriage, implementation of the POCSO Act, prevention of child trafficking and awareness about children’s rights.

Support for Children in Distress

The Commission works through various agencies to protect children in distress, including runaway or missing children, children living on the streets, child labourers, children employed as domestic workers, victims of sexual or physical abuse, trafficking victims, children requiring emotional support and abandoned children.

If a child faces exploitation, the concerned police station, senior police inspector or Child Welfare Police Officer can be contacted immediately. A juvenile justice system is available in every district to ensure appropriate action and access to justice.

Role of the Juvenile Justice Board

Children found in conflict with the law or accused of offences have a legal right to be treated with dignity and fairness. Juvenile Justice Boards established in every district hear such cases while giving priority to both rehabilitation and justice.

Initiatives for a Child-Friendly Society

Child protection requires not only government action but also active participation from society. Minister Aditi Tatkare recently announced plans to implement child-friendly panchayats focusing on child marriage prevention, child protection and education. These initiatives will help children become aware of their rights and entitlements.

With the support of UNICEF and YASHADA, efforts are underway to create child-friendly environments in villages.

Special projects are also being implemented in 10 districts in collaboration with the Man Mukti Foundation to safeguard children’s mental health. In Palghar district, the Magic Box Thinking programme is being conducted in schools to promote creativity and positive thinking among students.

Training, Awareness and Cyber Safety

Under the Child Safety Campaign, training programmes are being conducted across the state for teachers, police officers, officials of the Women and Child Development Department and representatives of various organisations.

Guidance sessions on cyber safety and digital responsibility are also being organised to enhance children’s online safety.

With the support of Hope Foundation, police officers and personnel are being trained in child-friendly approaches. The Commission also regularly organises training workshops for support persons appointed under the POCSO Act.

Key Initiatives Planned for the Future

To strengthen child protection, the Commission has proposed several important initiatives. These include a separate policy for protecting child artists in the film and entertainment industry, incorporating child safety into village award criteria, a separate policy for transgender children, guidelines on children’s online use and a uniform Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for all departments dealing with cases of sexual abuse.

Other planned measures include strengthening child panchayats at the village level, establishing child safety teams, launching special campaigns against child labour, conducting extensive awareness drives against child marriage and setting up Child Help Groups involving NSS volunteers, women’s self-help groups, Anganwadi workers, Gram Sevaks and voluntary organisations.

Child Helpline: Reliable Support in Emergencies

If a child is in distress or a violation of child rights is noticed, the Child Helpline 1098 and emergency service 112 can be contacted 24 hours a day, throughout the year, free of charge. These services provide children with immediate assistance, protection, counselling and necessary legal intervention.