CHILD RIGHTS AND PROTECTION: ROLE OF GRAM PANCHAYATS
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Abstract
Children are the most valuable members of the society as its future is dependent on the future of children. Despite being valuable, children in India face vulnerabilities such as survival threat, abuse and exploitation, early marriage, social and armed conflicts, trafficking, social discrimination, poverty etc. Various international treaties, declarations and documents have listed many rights for children. Constitution of India and the legislatures have formulated various laws and rules, which give certain rights to children. Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PNDT) Act, 1994, Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act, 2009, Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1989,Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006, Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2000Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012 are important among them. National Policy for Children, 2013 while reaffirming earlier policies, recognises that survival, health, nutrition, development, education and participation are inalienable rights of every child. Among other things this policy recognizes that every child has right to family or family environment is most conducive for all round development of children and that every child has right to a dignified life, free from exploitation. Integrated Child Development Scheme (ICDS), Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA), Integrated Child Protection Scheme (ICPS), Mission Indradhanus, Mid-day Meal Scheme (MDM), POSHAN Abhiyan are important central scheme for the protection and development of children.There are various committees in Gram Panchayats for protection and development of children. In majority of these Committees elected representative of Gram Panchayat in the Chairperson. By ensuring orientation of members, regular meeting, effective functioning of these committees, Gram Panchayats can ensure protection of child rights and development of children in their areas. The paper through analysis of various provisions of different legislations, policies, rules and orders of central government discusses in detail role of Gram Panchayats in addressing vulnerabilities of children and how elected representatives and officials of Gram Panchayats can be enabled to effectively perform their role.
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