Srinagar : Justice Sanjeev Kumar, Judge, High Court of J&K and Ladakh and Executive Chairman, J&K Legal Services Authority Saturday visited “Palaash” (Children Home for Boys) and “Pareesha” (Children Home for Girls) at Nishat, here to take stock of the facilities being provided to the children in these Homes.
On his arrival at Pareesha, Justice Sanjeev Kumar was accorded warm welcome by the District Child Protection officer Srinagar, CWC Srinagar Chairperson, Superintendent, Pareesha and staff of the homes.
Justice Sanjeev Kumar interacted with children at the Pareesha facility, inquiring about their educational pursuits and interests. The Deputy Child Protection Officer (DCPO) and Superintendent, Pareesha, highlighted the enhancements made to the facility, including an upgraded computer room, an open gym, and evening tutoring services. He also inspected the adjacent Home for Boys, “Palash,” where similar amenities were available. During his interactions, children reported receiving nutritious meals, educational resources, and sports equipment. Justice Kumar issued immediate directives to the DCPO and the Superintendent to ensure comprehensive support for the children, including the involvement of IMHANS for mental health and psychosocial services. His visit continued at the Observation Home Harwan in Srinagar, where he assessed the conditions for inmates and instructed management to maintain high standards and address the inmates’ needs. He commended the Social Welfare Department for its efforts in providing quality care and maintaining cleanliness in child-care institutions. Justice Kumar called for district and UT-level initiatives focused on the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, urging collaboration with District Legal Services Authorities, social welfare offices, and educational departments. He stressed the importance of utilizing UNICEF’s expertise to enhance awareness and implementation of the POCSO framework in Jammu and Kashmir. This visit reaffirmed the commitment of the J&K Legal Services Authority to the welfare and development of children in institutional care.
