JAMMU: Deputy Commissioner Sachin Kumar, who also serves as the Chairman of the District Child Protection Task Force, convened a meeting to review ongoing efforts for the rescue and rehabilitation of street children. The meeting was also attended by Additional District Development Commissioner, Sher Singh and Director Social Welfare, Rupesh Kumar.
During the meeting, the committee identified hotspots where child begging and street vending are prevalent, including areas such as Gandhi Nagar, Gole Market and Bahu Plaza. It was observed that these activities peak during specific hours of the day. The DC directed the committee to take concerted action for rescue, relief and overall well-being of the children.
The DC emphasised the importance of assured medical checkups for rescued children and mandated that an ambulance must be available during every rescue drive. Chief Medical Officer Dr Harbaksh Singh was tasked with ensuring this provision. Additionally, it was decided that a Magistrate and Station House Officer should be present during rescue operations, along with mandatory police support.
The progress of child rescue efforts and the education facilities provided to the rescued children were also reviewed. The DC directed that the capacity of Palash and Parisha rescue homes, managed by the Social Welfare Department, should be doubled to accommodate more children in need. Furthermore, feedback mechanisms were discussed to ensure continuous monitoring of the education of rescued children.
To strengthen measures against child labour, SDMs were instructed to conduct joint inspections by Assistant Labour Commissioner and police officials. The committee also finalised Aadhar-related formalities and procedures to streamline documentation for rescued children.
Chief Education Officer, JK Padha, Sub-Divisional Magistrates, Tehsildars, Superintendent of Police, Child Protection Officers and other concerned officials were present in the meeting.
