RAJOURI: To tackle issues of child begging, child labor, and children in street situations (CISS), Mission Vatsalya, under the Social Welfare Department, conducted an extensive drive in the Main Market of Rajouri.
The initiative was carried out on the directions of Commissioner Secretary, Social Welfare, Sheetal Nanda and under the guidance of Deputy Commissioner Abhishek Sharma, the District Child Protection Officer Abdul Raheem led the operation aimed at safeguarding the rights and welfare of vulnerable children.
The drive saw active participation from various departments, including the Child Welfare Committee, Police, Labour Department, and officials from the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU).
During the operation, six children forced in child labor and two children involved in begging were rescued. The children were produced before the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) Rajouri.
The Chairperson CWC Rajouri Priti Santal directed their rehabilitation according to the provisions of the Juvenile Justice (JJ) Act, ensuring their appropriate care and protection.
Labour Inspector Neeraj Kumar issued on-the-spot notices to employers, and authorities confirmed that strict action would be taken against violators under applicable laws.
Speaking about the drive, DCPO Abdul Raheem highlighted the department’s commitment to addressing child labor and begging through such initiatives. He reiterated the importance of rehabilitation and ensuring that affected children receive support through government schemes.