Berhampur's Gosaninuagaon Police Station Becomes Third Child-Friendly Facility
In a significant step towards creating a more approachable and comforting environment for young citizens, the Gosaninuagaon police station in Berhampur has been officially designated as the third child-friendly police station within the Berhampur police district. This transformation was marked by the inauguration of a specially designed child-friendly room on Wednesday evening.
Inauguration and Official Presence
The ceremony was presided over by Inspector General of Police for the Southern Range, Niti Sekhar, who formally inaugurated the dedicated space. The event was attended by Superintendent of Police (Berhampur) Saravana Vivek M., highlighting the district police's commitment to this initiative. Previously, the Mahila and Gopalpur police stations had also been developed as child-friendly premises, setting a precedent for this latest addition.
Creating an Amiable Environment for Children
Superintendent of Police Saravana Vivek M. emphasized the core objective behind establishing child-friendly police stations (CFPS). "Any child while having any form of interaction with cops at police stations is entitled to an amiable environment and sensitive policing," he stated. The government has set up these dedicated spaces to integrate a friendly ambience and a genial approach, enabling children to report incidents without fear, discomfort, or confusion.
He further explained that the initiative combines child-friendly physical infrastructure with enhanced training for police personnel. This dual approach ensures that the rights of children who come into contact with the police are robustly protected. The dedicated room features interior decorations specifically designed to make children feel at ease during their visits.
Features of the Child-Friendly Room
The newly inaugurated room is equipped with several amenities aimed at providing a playful and engaging atmosphere:
- Animated Murals and Colorful Drawings: The walls are adorned with vibrant, animated murals and colorful drawings to create a visually stimulating environment.
- Small Library: A collection of cartoons and animated stories has been established to encourage reading and imagination.
- Soft Toy Zone: A designated area filled with soft toys offers comfort and a sense of security for young visitors.
- Comfortable Seating: The room includes beds and chairs to ensure children and their guardians can sit comfortably.
- Privacy for Mothers: A separate space has been provided to ensure privacy for mothers who need to breastfeed their children, addressing essential needs during potentially stressful visits.
Aiming to Alleviate Fear
"The aim is to take the fear of police out of children's minds. It will provide a playful atmosphere to the children," added the Superintendent of Police. This psychological aspect is crucial, as many children may associate police stations with negative experiences or intimidation. By transforming the space into one that is welcoming and engaging, the police hope to build trust and encourage open communication.
Legal and Regulatory Framework
The establishment of this child-friendly room aligns with national guidelines and legal provisions. The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), India's apex child-protection body, has recommended the inclusion of a child-friendly corner or room in all police stations. The room at Gosaninuagaon was set up in accordance with the provisions of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, and follows the specific guidelines issued by the NCPCR.
This initiative reflects a broader movement towards more sensitive and child-centric policing, ensuring that law enforcement agencies are equipped to handle interactions with young individuals in a manner that prioritizes their well-being and rights. The Berhampur police district's progressive steps serve as a model for other regions aiming to implement similar child-friendly measures.
