STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: To ensure protection of children, Jammu Kashmir Civil Society Alliance for Child Protection (CSACP) was formed by the civil society representatives in a workshop held here at Hotel Fortune Rivera Inn.
After extensive deliberations about the issue of children’s rights, the participants unanimously decided to form a platform for propagation and promotion of children’s rights and children’s protection in the State. The one day deliberation for civil society stakeholders was supported by UNICEF. The participants, comprising civil society representatives including NGOs and professionals, resolved that CSACP will act as a watchdog and pressure group for transparent and result-oriented implementation of child rights laws and child welfare schemes in the State. A special reference was made in connection with the time-bound implementation of Juvenile Justice Act of 2014.
To lay the foundation of the CSACP, Conveners for Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh regions were unanimously elected by the participants who were assigned the task to initiate the process for the formation of the executive members representing the three regions of the State. The names of Rao Farman Ali for Kashmir, Rajiv Khajuria for Jammu and Chotac Gyatso for Ladakh were unanimously decided as conveners for the respective regions.
Speaking on the occasion, UNICEF official, Hilal Bhat underscored the need for sensitisation regarding child rights. “UNICEF is always ready to cooperate and guide the civil society members towards promotion of child rights,” he said.
Farukh Faheem, who teaches at Tata Institute of Social Sciences, in his presentation, observed that building a protective environment for children is crucial to ensure that children enjoy rights guaranteed by Indian Constitution and acknowledged by international conventions.
Sharing their views, the participants emphasised on strengthening government’s commitment and capacity to fulfill children’s Right to Protection; promoting the establishment and enforcement of adequate legislation; addressing harmful attitudes, customs and practices; encouraging open discussion of child protection issues that includes media and civil society partners; developing children’s life skills, knowledge and participation; building capacity of families and communities; providing essential services for prevention of child abuse, protection and promotion of child rights in Jammu and Kashmir.
The alliance also decided that Parvez Majeed and Ashutosh Khajuria will look after the media partnership.
