Punjab, Bathinda: In a significant step towards strengthening child protection and juvenile justice mechanisms, Punjab Police, in collaboration with the Save Childhood Movement (Bachpan Bachao Andolan), has launched a comprehensive state-level training program on the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015. This initiative is being conducted under the directives of the Hon’ble Punjab and Haryana High Court to enhance law enforcement’s capacity in handling cases involving children in conflict with the law and those in need of care and protection.
The campaign was officially inaugurated by DIG Bathinda Range, who presided over an interactive session with gazetted officers (GOs) and female police personnel from the Bathinda and Mansa districts. The discussions primarily focused on critical aspects such as the nature of juvenile crimes, rehabilitation strategies, victim compensation policies, and best practices in child-friendly policing.
During the training, subject matter experts and legal professionals provided in-depth insights into the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015, the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, and various case studies highlighting the need for child-sensitive policing. The session emphasized the importance of safeguarding children’s rights, ensuring their rehabilitation, and adopting a compassionate approach in dealing with juvenile offenders and child victims.
Key topics covered during the session included:
Legal Framework: Understanding the provisions of the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015, the POCSO Act, and their implications on law enforcement procedures.
Child-Sensitive Policing: Best practices for handling cases involving children with sensitivity and adherence to legal protocols.
Rehabilitation and Victim Compensation: Strategies to ensure proper rehabilitation of juveniles and the provision of compensation to victims of crimes.
Case Study Discussions: Real-life case analyses to provide practical insights into effective implementation of child protection laws.
The initiative aims to equip police personnel with the necessary knowledge and skills to create a more child-friendly justice system in Punjab. By fostering awareness and improving law enforcement’s response to juvenile-related cases, Punjab Police continues to uphold its commitment to protecting the rights of children and ensuring justice for young victims and offenders alike.
The training program is set to be conducted across various districts in the coming weeks, with the goal of establishing a uniform and effective approach towards juvenile justice across the state.
