Goa to Empanel Russian Translators for Domestic Violence and Child Protection Cases
The Women and Child Development Department in Goa has announced a significant initiative to empanel Russian translators. This move aims to better address critical issues of domestic violence and the protection of children belonging to Russian tourists, who visit the coastal state in substantial numbers.
Addressing Communication Gaps in Sensitive Cases
Under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Rules, the department has, for the first time, advertised for the empanelment of translators. Russian has been added to the list of languages, which already includes Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam. This expansion is a proactive step to handle cases more effectively.
A department official explained the rationale behind this decision: "Areas like Morjim and Arambol are already densely populated with Russian residents and tourists. We decided to empanel Russian translators, considering both past incidents and potential future issues that may arise."
Past Cases Highlight the Need for Specialized Translators
Stakeholders have dealt with numerous sensitive cases in the past, including:
- Sexual violence involving Russian minors.
- Domestic violence cases where the welfare of children needed careful assessment.
- Instances of child neglect requiring rescue and placement in facilities like Apna Ghar.
A stakeholder emphasized the importance of proper translation: "Child victims must always be allowed to recount their experiences in their native language, where they feel most comfortable. We have encountered families who speak only Russian and initially rely on phone translators, but this is insufficient. We then call for a professional Russian translator to ensure accuracy and sensitivity."
Legal Procedures and Enhanced Communication
With the help of a translator, victims can narrate their experiences more clearly. The final recorded statement is then signed by the police, the translator, and a counsellor, ensuring a legally sound process. The stakeholder added that many Russians, including children, have learned Hindi, but professional translation remains crucial for legal and emotional accuracy.
In domestic violence cases, translators are vital for communicating with children, who may be affected witnesses or victims themselves. This ensures their voices are heard and their rights protected.
Compliance with POCSO Rules
The POCSO rules mandate that district child protection units maintain a detailed register. This register includes the names, addresses, and contact information of interpreters, translators, special educators, experts, and support persons. By empaneling Russian translators, Goa is strengthening its compliance with these regulations and enhancing its child protection framework.
This initiative reflects Goa's commitment to safeguarding the rights and well-being of all children and addressing domestic violence effectively, regardless of language barriers. It sets a precedent for other tourist-heavy regions to follow, ensuring that legal and support systems are accessible to everyone.
