Khunti DLSA launches safe childhood campaign across six schools
THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK Khunti, October 26: The District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Khunti, on Monday launched the at DAV Centenary Public…
THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Khunti, October 26: The District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Khunti, on Monday launched the at DAV Centenary Public School to raise awareness among students about child rights, protection from abuse and access to legal assistance.
The campaign, being conducted under the aegis of the Jharkhand State Legal Services Authority (JHALSA), Ranchi, and in accordance with the directions of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), will run from October 26 to 31.
The initiative is being implemented under the guidance of Rasikesh Kumar, Principal District and Sessions Judge-cum-Chairman of DLSA Khunti.
Six schools in the district have been identified for the campaign. Students will be sensitised to their rights and child-protection measures, while information, education and communication (IEC) materials will be distributed to support the awareness drive.
As part of the next phase, two teachers from each selected school will be identified in November for training on child rights and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The trained teachers will subsequently organise awareness programmes in their respective schools. The DLSA plans to extend the initiative to more schools in the district in the future.
Judicial officers stress awareness of child rights
During Monday’s programme, students were informed about their rights, measures to protect themselves from abuse, and the legal assistance available if they encounter unsafe situations. They were also briefed on the role of DLSA and NALSA’s Child-Friendly Legal Services for Children Scheme, 2024.
District and Additional Sessions Judge-III Prachi Mishra emphasised the importance of making children aware of their rights and the legal provisions designed to protect them. She said awareness could help students identify inappropriate or unsafe situations and seek help when required.
Chief Judicial Magistrate Arjun Saw explained key provisions of the POCSO Act and highlighted the importance of preventing sexual offences against children. He encouraged students to report inappropriate behaviour to trusted parents, teachers or the relevant authorities.
Saw also stressed that ensuring children’s safety and protecting their rights were collective responsibilities. He said awareness programmes could help build confidence among children and encourage them to seek assistance when necessary.
Judicial Magistrate Amit Akash Sinha said every child had the right to live with dignity in a safe and fear-free environment. He urged students to remain alert about their safety and approach the appropriate authorities for legal assistance if they faced any problems.
Students briefed on free legal aid
Panel advocate Madan Mohan Ram explained how eligible individuals could access free legal assistance through the legal services authorities. He also outlined the role of DLSA in helping people understand and exercise their legal rights.
The programme aimed to improve awareness of child rights, protection mechanisms and legal support among students and teachers, while encouraging schools to provide a safe and child-friendly environment.
