Directions Issued to Enhance Child Care and Safety Standards
Bandpora|: In line with the ongoing efforts to ensure the protection and welfare of children residing in institutional care, officials from the District Child Protection Unit, Child Welfare Committee, Juvenile Justice Board, and Child Helpline Bandipora conducted a surprise inspection to Darul Ulooms at Gamroo, Bandipora.
The purpose of the visit was to evaluate the standard of care being provided and to ensure compliance with the provisions of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 and Mission Vatsalya guidelines.
During the visit, the team thoroughly inspected the infrastructure and available facilities at institutions. The officials also interacted with the children to assess their living conditions, educational status, and overall well-being.
The authorities of the institutions were directed to improve the living standards of the children by ensuring access to proper accommodation, nutritious food, clean drinking water, sanitation, and adequate clothing. They were further instructed to strengthen safety and security measures within the premises to ensure a safe and protective environment for all children residing there.
Additionally, the officials warned the management not to engage or involve children in collecting donations from public places, as such practices are strictly prohibited and constitute a violation of Child Rights.
Recognizing the onset of the harsh winter season, the concerned were given a 15-days deadline to make all necessary arrangements to safeguard the health and comfort of the children. The institutions were advised to ensure the availability of proper heating arrangements, warm clothing, bedding, and other essential facilities to cope with winter conditions.
The DCPO Bandipora emphasized that regular monitoring and surprise inspections will continue to be carried out to ensure compliance with child protection norms and to uphold the welfare and dignity of children living in institutional care.
