The District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), Kangpokpi, under the Department of Social Welfare, organised a one-day awareness programme on the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and the prevention of child marriages at Sopleng Government High School, Island Block, on Friday.
The session, attended by students, parents, and school faculty, aimed to strengthen understanding of child safety laws, highlight the consequences of underage marriage, and encourage community responsibility in reporting child-related offences.
Key Focus: Child Rights, POCSO Act & Juvenile Justice Act
Two resource persons led the interactions:
| Resource Person | Designation | Focus Area |
|---|---|---|
| Smt. Reena Channu Moirangthem | District Child Protection Officer | POCSO Act & Child Safety |
| Smt. Gyani Lakshmi Thongam | Programme Manager, State Adoption Resource Agency | Child Marriage, Child Rights & JJ Act |
Speaking at the programme, DCPU Officer Reena Channu Moirangthem explained the core provisions of the POCSO Act, emphasising that any form of sexual offence against a minor—whether physical, verbal, or online—is punishable under law. She urged students to speak up without fear and encouraged parents and teachers to create safe spaces for children to report abuse.
Discussions Around Child Marriage
Programme Manager Gyani Lakshmi Thongam highlighted the social, psychological, and legal implications of child marriage, noting that marrying off children under 18 is a criminal offence and a violation of their rights.
She stressed that early marriage often leads to health risks, loss of education, emotional trauma, and long-term economic hardship, especially for young girls. The session reinforced the collective responsibility of parents, guardians, and community leaders in preventing such practices.
Teaching Safe Boundaries: Good Touch vs Bad Touch
One of the more interactive segments was focused on understanding personal boundaries. Students were taught how to identify good touch and bad touch, and where to seek help if they feel unsafe. The importance of early awareness and communication was strongly emphasised.
1098 Childline: A Lifeline for Children
Participants were encouraged to use the 1098 Child Helpline, a toll-free, 24×7 emergency number for children in distress. The DCPU team urged attendees to report any suspected cases of abuse, neglect, exploitation, or forced marriage.
Support Material Shared with Students
The programme concluded with the distribution of stationery items to the students as a small encouragement for active participation.
School authorities thanked the DCPU team for the initiative, noting that regular awareness sessions are vital for safeguarding children and building informed communities.