One-Day Awareness Programme on POCSO Act 2012 Held at Tuibong

A One Day Awareness Programme on the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012 was successfully conducted today at the Sadbhavana Mandap Relief Camp, Tuibong. The event was jointly organised by the District Police, Child Welfare Committee (CWC) Churachandpur, and the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), Churachandpur.

The programme aimed to sensitise the public—especially those residing in relief camps—on the critical issue of child sexual abuse and the legal protections provided under the POCSO Act.

The session featured several key resource persons, including Shri Prakhar Pandey, Superintendent of Police, Churachandpur; Smt. Chingngaidon, Chairperson of CWC, Churachandpur; Inspector Chiinneilam Gangte, Officer-in-Charge of the Women Police Station, Churachandpur; and Advocate Thangmuan Ngaihte.

Addressing the gathering, SP Pandey highlighted the importance of communication between parents and children. “In our busy lives, we often neglect to ask our children how they are doing. We need to talk to them, understand them, and be there for them,” he said. Emphasising community responsibility, he urged attendees to report any suspected offences to the police or concerned agencies like CWC and DCPU. “Talking is the first step toward protection,” he added.

Chairperson of the CWC, Smt. Chingngaidon, elaborated on the role of the Committee under the Social Welfare Department, stating that it provides necessary intervention for children in need. “Through counselling, education, and vocational training, we have helped many children overcome trauma,” she shared.

Insp. Chiinneilam Gangte addressed the gathering on the practical enforcement of the Act, citing numerous real-life cases from the district. She expressed concern over underreporting, likely due to fear and social stigma. “I especially appeal to mothers—do not hesitate to report any offence against your child, whether they are girls or boys,” she said.

Advocate Thangmuan Ngaihte provided a detailed overview of the legal framework of the POCSO Act and discussed the remedies available to victims.

The session also reiterated the importance of maintaining the confidentiality of child victims. Under Section 23 of the POCSO Act, disclosure of the identity of child victims in any form of media is strictly prohibited. Media personnel were urged to exercise restraint and uphold the privacy and dignity of those involved in such cases, in line with Supreme Court directives and Press Council of India guidelines.

The awareness programme concluded with an interactive session, where participants raised queries and shared concerns, reaffirming the community’s commitment to protecting its children.