Karnataka Child Rights Official Demands Action on School Safety
Mangaluru witnessed a crucial call to action as KT Thippeswamy, a member of the Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights, emphasized that the alarming rise in child rights violations within educational institutions can be effectively prevented through the rigorous implementation of Child Protection Policies (CPPs).
Workshop Highlights Systemic Gaps
Thippeswamy made these remarks while inaugurating a specialized workshop focused on child protection policy, which was attended by child protection committee members and student representatives. He pointed out a significant failure in the system, noting that even after a decade, CPPs have not been implemented effectively across schools and colleges in the state.
"Child Protection Policy must be enforced in every educational institution catering to children below 18 years," Thippeswamy asserted. "Awareness is lacking, which is why child welfare committees statewide are organizing workshops to ensure these policies are properly adopted and followed."
Urgent Need for Campus Safety
The official highlighted the critical need to safeguard children's rights within school and college premises, stressing that educational institutions must play a pivotal role in protection. He cited disturbing trends, including increasing cases of:
- Sexual assault and Pocso cases involving minors
- Teen pregnancies
- Child marriages
- Suicides among minors
Thippeswamy urged teachers to act as legal guardians for children from the moment they arrive on campus until they safely return home, emphasizing their responsibility in preventing atrocities.
Broader Perspectives on Child Welfare
Akshatha Adarsh, chairperson of the Dakshina Kannada Child Welfare Committee, added that parents should not solely focus on academic achievements but must also prioritize instilling human values in their children. This holistic approach is essential for comprehensive child development and protection.
Renni D'souza, CEO of Padi and the workshop's resource person, explained that implementing CPPs enables school authorities to respond more effectively to violations. He noted that such policies can address various issues, including:
- Aggression among children
- Student dropouts
- Sexual assault incidents
- Mental torture cases
The collective message from the workshop was clear: proactive measures through Child Protection Policies are indispensable for creating safer educational environments and curbing the distressing rise in child rights violations across Karnataka.
