Deputy Commissioner Udhampur Saloni Rai today chaired the meeting of District-Level Task Force on child Labour-Child Abuse-CISS herein the Mini Conference Hall of DC Office Complex. The meeting was attended by District Child Protection Officer Kanika Gupta, Secretary DLSA, SDMs, DySP Headquarters, Chief Medical Officer, Chief Education Officer and other concerned officials.
DCPO Kanika Gupta informed the chair about the role and responsibilities of different stakeholders in the Task Force. She particularly emphasized the pivotal role of the educational machinery especially school teachers in identifying and reporting instances of child abuse and child marriage.
She also highlighted several challenges faced during raid operations and underscored the urgent need for the constitution of Sub-Division level Task Forces for timely and localized intervention. The DC issued directions to all Sub-Divisional Magistrates to immediately revive Sub-Division level Task Forces to identify and act against instances of child labour and child marriage.
She further emphasized the need for coordinated efforts and active communication between all Task Forces to ensure effective enforcement. The DC also stressed the importance of sensitization and awareness, especially in schools and communities to curb these social evils.
She directed the Chief Education Officer to maintain a vigilant check on student dropouts and prolonged absences, which often act as early indicators of potential child abuse or marriage.
Terming child marriage and child labour as a gross violation of the Fundamental Right to Life and Dignity, the DC appealed to all stakeholders, officials and members of the public to act as Ambassadors of Change by reporting such cases and contributing towards the vision of a safe and protected environment for every child.