Pics: Justin D’Silva
Daijiworld media network – Udupi (JD)
Udupi, Dec 27: “Children should take care of themselves when in danger. Child trafficking is a very serious issue today. Lacs of children are sent for prostitution and child labour through child trafficking. In crucial situations, children should try their best to take care of themselves and their friends,” said Dr Jayamala, minister for Women and Child Development and Empowerment of Differently Abled and Senior Citizens.
Inaugurating the implementation of Udupi Child Rights Friendly Protection Protocol on Thursday, December 27 at DC office, Jayamala said, “For the first time, Udupi is becoming a children friendly district. A nation’s development is not in building roads and buildings, but in protecting children. Children’s gram sabhas are a stage for them to share their difficulties and sufferings. Transgender problem develops from childhood itself. Parents hide this for protecting the family’s status. But the child’s friends should bring this to the notice of concerned people and help them to get their rights as well. Working for your personal development is not child labour. But working for others as a slave is prohibited.”
District deputy commissioner Priyanka Mary Francis, speaking about the implementation of the protocol said, “Protection of children’s right is responsibility of every department. With the help of 3-tier panchayat system, children’s groups have been formed for the protection of their rights. Until now, we were formulating policies without considering the views of children. But this protocol is completely formulated with the help of children considering their grievances. This protocol gives a chance to the children to participate in decision making.”
A skit was performed by the children of Kundapur taluk based on the difficulties they were facing in their region.
Toll free number 1800-425-2900 was also released on the occasion to quickly respond to the violation of children’s rights. Children can call this number and register their complaint in case of violation of their rights.
Gracy Gonsalves, assistant director for Women and Child Development and Empowerment, Udupi district, welcomed the gathering.
Dinakar Babu, president, Udupi zilla panchayat, Sheela K Shetty, vice-president, Udupi zilla panchayat, Dr Vanita N Toravi, member, Karnataka State Children’s Rights Protection Commission, Nalini Pradeep Rao, president, Udupi taluk panchayat, Sindhu B Roopesh, CEO, zilla panchayat, Udupi, Vidya Kumari, assistant district commissioner, and Pavan and Roopa, Children’s Association, were present.