Guwahati News Desk: November 20th is celebrated as World Children’s Day globally, every year. The ‘Go Blue’ campaign was started by UNICEF, the UN Agency that deals with Child Rights globally. Iconic landmarks across the world are illuminated in the colour blue, expressing solidarity with the preservation of the rights of children across the world.
The police is the first contact point for children who are victims of crime and children who come in conflict with law. Therefore, the police has a crucial role to play in protecting the rights of children who come in contact with the policing system. Child friendly handling and timely disposal of child-related cases can help children secure speedy justice, which is the absolute right of each and every child.
The Assam Police Shishu Mitra Programme, which was launched in 2019, is one of the largest Child-friendly Policing programmes in India. Run jointly by the Assam Police, UNICEF and UTSAH Child Rights Org; is a result of the Assam Polices’ commitment towards Child Rights.
The Assam Police Headquarters, Guwahati Police Commissioner’s Office along with 4 Police Stations, Azara, Bashishtha, PanBazar & Jalukbari (New) turned blue on World Children’s Day. “We wish all the children a very Happy World Children’s Day. We give utmost importance to child friendly policing in the State. We are committed towards protecting the rights of all the children who come into contact with the Assam Police”, said Bhaskar Jyoti Mahanta, IPS, DGP, Assam.
“Like every year, this year ‘Go Blue’ is symbolic of our commitment towards children and their rights. The Assam Police will always strive to protect the rights of every child.” said Harmeet Singh, IPS, Commissioner of Police, Guwahati City.
“A child needs care and sensitivity. With support from UNICEF and UTSAH, the Guwahati Police is working to ensure that the rights of children are upheld and protected throughout the entire process of justice delivery”, said Partha Sarathi Mahanta, IPS, Joint Commissioner of Police, Guwahati.
From child friendly attitudinal shifts to timely and efficient disposal of cases; the Assam Police Shishu Mitra Programme has been able to make a very meaningful impact in the area of Child Rights in Assam.