AGARTALA, Sep 16: Aiming to strengthen the protection of children and ensure that their rights, safety and dignity are upheld, the Tripura Commission for Protection of Child Rights (TCPCR) organised its first-ever ‘Child Rights and Protection Conclave’ at the Commission’s office in Melarmath, Agartala, on Wednesday.

The conclave brought together representatives from Child Welfare Committees (CWCs), District Inspector of Social Education (DISE), District Child Protection Officers (DCPOs) and Child Helplines (CHL) from different districts of Tripura, creating a common platform to discuss challenges and improve coordination across the state’s child protection system.

A major focus of the discussions was the effective implementation of the Juvenile Justice Act and the POCSO Act, with particular emphasis on ensuring timely investigation and disposal of POCSO cases and adopting child-friendly procedures throughout the process. Participants also discussed strengthening support, rehabilitation and assistance for children who are victims of abuse.

The conclave broadened its focus beyond legal mechanisms, addressing emerging challenges including child trafficking, protection of children in border areas, online safety and cybersecurity. The need to create safe and child-friendly environments in schools was also highlighted.

The effective functioning of Child Helpline 1098 featured prominently in the discussions, alongside an exchange of experiences from different districts on challenges, gaps and successful initiatives in child protection.

Education and inclusion were another important part of the deliberations. Participants discussed implementation of Section 12(1)(C) of the Right to Education (RTE) Act, which provides for admission of children from economically weaker and disadvantaged sections in private schools. The conclave also highlighted inclusive education for children with special needs and the importance of early identification and assessment of learning disabilities so that appropriate support can be provided at the earliest.

By bringing officials and child protection stakeholders from across the state onto one platform, the conclave sought to identify gaps in the existing system and develop practical recommendations based on ground-level experiences.

TCPCR stressed that protecting every child’s rights, safety, dignity and healthy development requires close coordination among government departments, child protection institutions and other stakeholders. The Commission said the conclave is intended to contribute towards building a stronger and more coordinated child protection framework across Tripura.

The conclave was chaired by TCPCR Chairperson Jayanti Debbarma. Member Secretary Madhab Pal, members Chamelee Saha, Monika Debbarma, Maitri Deb Dutta and Goutam Kumar Shil were also present. Chairpersons of Child Welfare Committees and District Child Welfare Officers from different districts attended the programme.