CJM Kishtwar reviews implementation of Juvenile Justice Act

Takes stock of working of DCPU, CWC, JJB and other stakeholders

KISHTWAR, JUNE 11: Chief Judicial Magistrate/Principal Magistrate, Juvenile Justice Board Kishtwar, Mahmud Anwar Alnasir, today took stock of working of Child Welfare Committee (CWC), Juvenile Justice Board (JJB); District Child Protection Unit (DCPU) and Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) and the implementation of Juvenile Justice Act. 

The meeting was attended by ASP Kishtwar, Assistant Public Prosecutor, Chairperson and Members CWC and JJB Kishtwar, CDPOs, DYSSO Kishtwar, CEO Kishtwar, District Child Protection Officer Kishtwar, DySPs, SHOs, Special Juvenile Police Officers, Standing Medical/Counseling Board members,  Superintendent of Child Care Institutions, LCPO, PO NIC , PO IC of DCPU Mission Vatsalya Kishtwar and other staff members.

The meeting focused on spreading of awareness and protection of the rights of victims and children in need of care and protection, with particular emphasis on overnight custody arrangements for victims/survivors and the reporting of POCSO cases within 24 hours before the Child Welfare Committee (CWC), Juvenile Justice Board (JJB), and District Child Protection Unit (DCPU).

During the meeting, several key directives were issued to improve the overall functioning of the system. These directives include the establishment of a fully equipped video conferencing system, along with a dedicated internet facility at the JJB. Furthermore, discussions were held regarding the establishment of child-friendly rooms at the JJB for children in conflict with the law (CCLs).

 Additionally, the meeting addressed concerns related to the roles and responsibilities of Social Workers and Counselors and measures taken by the labor department in coordination with the District Child Protection Unit to prevent child labor in Kishtwar District were also discussed.

Several upcoming activities were outlined during the meeting, including intra-CCI socio-cultural and sports activities/competitions for children in need of care and protection (CNCPs) placed in various CCIs, a pre-tournament preparatory camp for CNCPs, an inter-college/higher secondary debate competition and a symposium as well.

The meeting also emphasized the importance of providing an updated list of drop-out children and the implementation of free and compulsory education for CNCPs/CCLs in both private and government schools/tutors. The reporting of child marriage cases by staff members of the School Education Department via the Chief Education Officer (CEO) and Child Development Project Officers (CDPOs) as Protection Officers under DV, Act.

Furthermore, the Chair  highlighted the significance of preventive measures against minors engaging in stunt driving and driving vehicles, especially in the vicinity of schools and tuition centers in the town area of Kishtwar.

The meeting concluded with an interactive question and discussion session, allowing stakeholders to address queries and exchange valuable insights.

The Principal Magistrate expressed his appreciation for the collective efforts and contributions of all stakeholders and stressed the importance of continuous collaboration to ensure the effective protection and well-being of children in Kishtwar.