Media Release
Mangaluru, Sep 19: An awareness session on the POCSO Act (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) was organized on September 18 at Ladyhill Central School ICSE, Urwa. The programme aimed to create awareness about safeguarding children, legal provisions under the POCSO Act, and the role of teachers and society in ensuring child safety.
The event began with a prayer, followed by the inauguration through the lighting of the lamp. The inaugural address was delivered by Mohana J S, additional district and sessions judge, FTSC-1 (POCSO), DK Mangaluru, who stressed the need for vigilance, legal awareness, and collective responsibility in protecting children. The core of the programme was the awareness session led by K Nikesh Shetty, senior advocate and former chairperson of the Child Welfare Committee, Mangaluru.
In his talk, he explained the significance of the POCSO Act of 2012, which was introduced to specifically address sexual offences against children, thereby ensuring stronger legal protection. He highlighted the challenges faced by victims, pointing out that many children struggle to express their problems due to fear and innocence, which offenders often misuse.
K Nikesh Shetty elaborated on different types of offences covered under the Act, including both physical and non-physical forms such as sexual harassment, exploitation, and child pornography. He emphasized the crucial role of teachers and adults in educating children about safe and unsafe behavior, as well as the duty to report any offence immediately. He also reminded that failure to report such offences can invite punishment under the law. Linking his discussion to Article 15 of the Constitution, he stressed that children deserve equality and special protection. Through real-life examples, he impressed upon teachers the importance of being alert, approachable, and supportive to students, and provided practical guidance on how to educate, protect, and empower children to face such issues.
The session was graced by the presence of Kiran, assistant legal aid defence counsel, DLSA Mangaluru; Sister Jenifer Moras AC, principal of Ladyhill Central School ICSE; Sister Magdalin AC, principal of Ladyhill Kannada Medium School; and Sister Sharmila AC, principal of Ladyhill PU College. The programme was smoothly conducted by Elizabeth, POCSO committee coordinator, as master of ceremony, the welcome address by Navomi, assistant teacher, and the vote of thanks proposed by Keerthi, assistant teacher.
The awareness session proved to be extremely informative and impactful. It highlighted the collective duty of teachers, parents, and society to protect children and to stand up against any form of abuse. The insights shared by the resource person gave the participants a clear understanding of the law and practical steps to ensure a safe and nurturing environment for every child.