‘Child protection accorded least priority’

Morung Express News
Dimapur | May 27  

Chairman of District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), Dimapur, Kesonyu Yhome IAS, who is also the Deputy Commissioner, unequivocally pointed out that child rights and protection was one of the least accorded priorities in the state both at government and civil society levels.  

The reason behind this, according to Yhome, was the absence of funds and schemes involved in it.  

Speaking at an ‘Awareness cum Consultation meet on Child Rights and Child Protection for Community Leaders’ at Tourist Lodge, Dimapur on Saturday, Yhome said the activities of child rights and protection were purely a voluntary service rendered to the society.  

He said such programmes might be attended by many yet people forget later on since there is no fund involved in it, adding, “This is the tragedy of the campaign.”  

The DCPU Chairman pointed out that the Naga society has two definitions for a child – own child and other’s child mostly employed as domestic helpers. “Even if the two children are of the same age, we treat them differently and this is only the tip of an iceberg as far as violation of child rights is concerned,” he said.  

Yhome said many instances of child abuse happen in the homes of the affluent, educated, and called for change in mental outlook and reorienting the mindset.   He also called for a humane touch while dealing with a child since it was a matter of dealing with someone who is defenceless, unable to stand and speak for their own rights.  

Ritale Zeliang, Programme Manager, State Child Protection Society, Kohima appealed for the support and cooperation of the community and district administration so that justice can be delivered to those children in need.  

Legal cum Probation Officer, Moajungla highlighted on the topic ‘Child Protection and Child Rights.’ Childline Dimapur presented a power point presentation on instances of child abuse during the programme. The community leaders and public were informed to call 1098 to report any instances of child abuse for rescuing any child in distress.  

District Child Protection Officer, Dimapur, Pikato Tuccu delivered the welcome address during the programme that was attended by community leaders at village level, colonies and wards.