Gandhinagar, Sep 15 (PTI) The Gujarat government on Tuesday announced its child protection policy which aims to ensure a “safe, dignified and rights-based childhood for children in the state.” The ‘Gujarat State Child protection Policy-2026’ aims to create a safe and equal environment where every child can grow to their full potential, free from violence, exploitation, abuse, neglect and discrimination, it said in a release.
The policy also seeks to ensure that children have access to education, healthcare, holistic development and the right to express their views, it said.
Under the policy, institutions having direct contact with children will have to provide their employees with training on child rights, the POCSO Act, the Juvenile Justice Act and other relevant laws.
A code of conduct will be prescribed for institutions and employees under the policy with a strict approach towards humiliation, harassment and discriminatory or sexually inappropriate behaviour towards children.
Institutions or individuals failing to comply with the policy may face action.
Special importance is given under the policy to provide “equal child protection services to all children without discrimination based on religion, caste, gender, socio-economic status, political or cultural background, or geographical area,” the release said.
Priority is given to children in need of care and protection, in conflict with law, Divyang, migrant, orphaned, belonging to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes or disadvantaged communities, affected by human trafficking, living on the streets, or in institutional or alternative care, it said.
The policy also covers transgender and intersex children, those affected by HIV/AIDS or chronic illnesses, natural disasters, and those living in conflict-affected areas.
The policy is based on a ‘zero-tolerance’ approach towards child abuse and exploitation and promotes child-safe schools, healthcare facilities, child care institutions, workplaces, digital environments and public places.
To address online safety, the policy aims to strengthen measures to prevent and respond to cyber risks related to the internet, social media and digital technologies. PTI KA KRK
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