District Child Protection Unit educates students on child rights, personal safety, cyber risks and reporting abuse
Yamunanagar | Rama Kaushik
As part of the Mission Vatsalya initiative, the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), Yamunanagar, organised a comprehensive awareness programme on the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, at Government Girls Senior Secondary School, Sabzi Mandi, to strengthen awareness about child safety and legal rights.
The programme aimed to sensitise students and teachers about child protection laws while encouraging children to speak openly about their concerns and report any uncomfortable or unsafe experiences without fear.
Addressing the gathering, Munish Kumar, Counsellor at the District Child Protection Unit, explained the objectives and key provisions of the POCSO Act. He said the legislation safeguards children below the age of 18 against sexual abuse, harassment and online exploitation while ensuring child-friendly and speedy justice.
Social worker Gurpreet Singh conducted an interactive session on recognising good touch and bad touch, urging students to immediately inform parents, teachers or any trusted adult if they experience inappropriate behaviour, even if the person involved is someone they know.
Emphasising the importance of reporting abuse, he said the message “Don’t Stay Silent, Speak Up” is the first step towards ensuring a child’s safety.
Students were also educated about the Child Helpline 1098 and its role in providing immediate assistance during emergencies. The session further covered safe internet practices, including protection against cyberbullying, online fraud and fake social media profiles.
Child Welfare Committee Chairman Ashok Kumar
Child Welfare Committee Chairman Ashok Kumar and member Sushil Gulati stressed that creating a child-friendly environment is a shared responsibility of parents, teachers and educational institutions. They said schools should not only impart academic education but also equip children with knowledge about their rights and personal safety.
, Yamunanagar, organised a comprehensive awareness programme on the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, at Government Girls Senior Secondary School, Sabzi Mandi, to strengthen awareness about child safety and legal rights.){kind=link}