With the Madras High Court having finally cleared the decks for the reconstitution of the State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (SCPCR), which had remained dormant for nearly three years over a pending case, experts and activists have called for the body’s strengthening — from the allocation of more budget to the appointment of members with expertise in child rights.
The SCPCR oversees the implementation of the POCSO Act, Juvenile Justice Act, Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, and Right to Education Act.
Activists stressed the importance of appointing chairpersons and members with expertise in child rights to the commission, and not on the basis of politics. “Just because children do not have political will or are not part of the vote bank, they cannot be ignored,” an activist said.
Child rights activist A. Devaneyan said, “Issues such as online safety, violence against children, and violence by children are taking the forefront. It is important that while choosing the chairperson and members for this commission, individuals with expertise and experience in child rights, protection, law, psychology, and field experience are appointed.”
‘Adequate budget required’
Drawing a comparison to Kerala’s SCPCR, another activist noted that the neighbouring State had allocated over ₹5 crore for the functioning of the independent body, which was not the case with Tamil Nadu. “Adequate budget is required to ensure the proper functioning of the commission,” the activist added.
Executive director of Arunodaya, Virgil D’Sami, said it was also important that the members were properly oriented to their duty and roles as in most cases, they were unsure of their tasks. “Further, the State government has to provide complete support in terms of funds, infrastructure, and others to ensure that the commission functions well,” she added.
Published - January 24, 2025 12:04 pm IST
