The need for stronger implementation of child protection laws and better awareness of children’s rights in Nagaland was underscored at an awareness programme organized by the Nagaland State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NSCPCR) in Jalukie on March 26, 2025. Discussions focused on the ten fundamental rights of children, challenges in implementing the Juvenile Justice Act, gaps in addressing child sexual abuse, and the need for better education access under the Right to Education (RTE) Act.
Chairman of NSCPCR, Alun Hangsing, highlighted the significance of child rights, explaining that the Commission is an autonomous statutory body responsible for ensuring that all laws, policies, and government programs align with child rights principles. He outlined the ten fundamentals of child rights, including the Right to Survival, Right to Education, Right to Protection, and Right to a Safe Environment, among others.
A key discussion centered on the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act. Legal Consultant Lichani Murry emphasized that the Act aims to provide care and protection for children by ensuring a child-friendly approach in handling juvenile cases. She explained that the law categorizes children into two groups—those in conflict with the law and those in need of care and protection—with different mechanisms in place for their rehabilitation and support. Murry also addressed legal provisions concerning crimes against children, mechanisms for protection, and adoption procedures.
The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, was another focal point of the programme. NSCPCR member Akumla Longchari explained that the Act protects children below 18 years from sexual offences and stressed the collective responsibility of the government, communities, and individuals in preventing child sexual abuse. “It is not just the government’s responsibility to keep children safe; it is a shared duty of all members of society,” she said.
Addressing the right to education, NSCPCR member Aying Wangsha elaborated on the RTE Act, which guarantees free and compulsory education for children aged 6 to 14 years. She discussed the roles of government bodies, local authorities, parents, and school management committees in ensuring access to education. Wangsha also highlighted the importance of the RTI Act in holding authorities accountable for providing quality education.
A presentation on child protection issues specific to Peren district was delivered by Asungbe, Legal-cum-Probation Officer, DCPU, Peren.
ADC Jalukie, TL Kiusumong Tikhir, in his address, commended the NSCPCR for organizing the programme in Jalukie, emphasizing the importance of creating a safe and healthy environment for children. He noted that childhood is a crucial phase in life and requires collective efforts from all stakeholders to ensure children’s well-being.
The programme was attended by government officials, representatives from schools, churches, student leaders, and civil society organizations. Chaired by Ibamsile Dwaswang, Coordinator of Child Helpline, Peren, the event commenced with a welcome address by Yongchingkumla, Additional Secretary of Social Welfare and Secretary, NSCPCR, and concluded with a vote of thanks by Pikato E. Tuccu of DCPU, Peren.