Dimapur, October 20 (MExN): The District Legal Services Authorities (LSA) of Dimapur, Zunheboto, and Mokokchung, organised essay competitions on the topic “Child Rights in India” in their respective districts on Thursday.
According to a press release, the competition was held to promote and spread basic legal literacy among the younger generations.
In Zunheboto, the essay competition was conducted at Sunbeam School in which a total of 30 students competed “with great zeal and interest”. Pivikali L. Zhimo bagged the first prize, while Avi Zhimo and Limbo were adjudged second and third respectively. The three winners were awarded with cash prizes while all the participants received gift hampers.
The competition started off with a keynote address by Tovi Yeptho, Retainer Lawyer of Zunheboto District Legal Services Authority. Briefing on the importance of Child Rights, Yeptho lamented that many citizens remain unaware of the importance of Child Rights. Emphasizing that the rights guaranteed by the UNCRC in 1989 is focused mainly on the care and protection of child right, Yeptho maintained that minimum entitlements and freedom should be afforded to every child regardless of colour, race or creed.
He also highlighted the importance of Pocso Act enacted in 2012 and stressed that every child must be protected and their interests be safeguarded. Article 21A which guarantees the right to free and compulsory education to children up to the age of 14 and child labour (Protection and Regulation) Act 1986, which prohibits the employment of children in hazardous occupation was also highlighted.
In Dimapur, the essay competition was held at A.G. Higher Secondary School during which panel Lawyers of Dimapur District Legal Services Authority apprised the students on the salient features of Child rights in India, Right to Education and fundamental Duties enshrined in the constitution.
In Mokokchung, the competition was held at the Bar Room, District Court Building. Panel Lawyers and Para Legal Volunteers of Mokokchung District Legal Services Authority supervised the competition where fifteen students from eight schools competed. The winners of the essay competition will be adjudged and award cash prize along with certificates in time to come.
