‘Minors part of violence’: NCPCR demands strict action in Junagarh clashes
1 min read 18 Jun 2023, 04:08 PM ISTThe suo-moto cognizance by the NCPCR came as minors were involved in clashes at Junagarh district of Gujarat
PremiumNational Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has taken suo-moto cognizance of recent clashes in the Junagarh district of Gujarat. The child rights body has claimed that the videos of the clashes show minor children indulging in violence. The violence broke out between the crowd and police officials as part of an anti-encroachment drive. As per the reports, one person was killed in the incident while many police personnel were injured. The NCPCR has demanded action in the matter in seven days.
“The commission has taken suo-moto cognisance under Section 13(1)(j) of CPCR Act, 2005 of a video circulation on Twitter wherein it has been brought to the notice that a massive violence took place in Junagadh…Through the said video, it is evident that many minor children have been seen stone pelting and are further seen to be a part of the mob," NCPCR said in the letter.
NCPCR said that there has been a violation of Sections 83(2) and 75 of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, as well as other applicable provisions of the Indian Penal Code, 1860.
According to Section 83(2) of the Juvenile Justice Act, individuals or groups of adults who exploit children, either individually or as part of a gang, to engage in unlawful activities may face severe punishment, including imprisonment for approximately seven years and a fine of up to ₹5 lakh.
Section 75 of the Juvenile Justice Act talks about punishment for assaulting, abandoning, abusing, or willfully neglecting children.
As per the reports, the civic body of Junagarh issued a notice to a mosque situated near Mejevadi Gate as part of an anti-encroachment drive. As the situation became tense in the area, clashes broke out and one person was killed.