Haryana State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (HSCPCR) Chairperson Tripti Sheoran on Thursday directed police to register an FIR in an alleged assault case involving two juvenile boys at a Place of Safety in Madhuban, Karnal. Expressing serious concern over the delay in action despite a complaint having been lodged, Sheoran also pulled up police personnel for their inadequate knowledge of provisions under the Juvenile Justice Act.
Allegations of Brutal Assault
According to the complaint, two minor boys were residing at the Place of Safety in compliance with orders of the Juvenile Justice Board. The complainant alleged that two staff members of the institution brutally assaulted the children with pipes and belts, causing multiple injuries. After the incident, both children were taken to a hospital, where multiple injuries were recorded in their Medico-Legal Reports. The complaint further stated that despite the matter being reported to the Madhuban police station, no effective action had been taken so far, and the complainants had not been informed whether an FIR had been registered or about its current status.
Commission Directives and Inspection
“The chairperson has directed the DSP to ensure that an FIR is registered without further delay,” said an official. She also instructed officials to produce the children before the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) and to organise special training sessions for all Child Welfare Police Officers in the district. Stressing the need for better protection of children, she called for strengthening the Juvenile Police Unit.
During her visit, Sheoran inspected the residential facility. While the condition of the rooms was found to be satisfactory, she expressed concern over unhygienic bathrooms and toilets and directed authorities to take immediate corrective measures to improve cleanliness and sanitation.
Surprise Visit to Bal Bhavan
Later, Sheoran paid a surprise visit to Bal Bhavan in Karnal, where children were found engaged in their studies. She expressed dissatisfaction over the lack of progress in reintegrating eligible children with their families and promoting non-institutional care. She directed the CWC to review all such cases immediately and expedite the process of family restoration wherever possible.
“Violations of children’s rights or administrative negligence in matters related to their safety and wellbeing will not be tolerated,” Sheoran said, adding that the commission would ensure prompt and strict action against any lapses affecting children’s rights.
Background of the Case
Earlier, the Haryana Human Rights Commission had ordered a comprehensive inquiry into the case, directing the Police Department, Women and Child Development Department, and the Superintendent of Place of Safety, Madhuban, to submit separate detailed reports. The HSCPCR chairperson also called for immediate measures to strengthen child protection mechanisms in the district.
