KATHUA, APRIL 26: The District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Kathua, under the guidance of Chairman DLSA (Principal District and Sessions Judge) Jatinder Singh Jamwal, today organized a legal awareness programme here at Government Girls Higher Secondary School.
The programme, held under the aegis of National and J&K Legal Services Authorities, aimed to spread awareness regarding the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015.
The event commenced with Saraswati Vandhana performed by Diksha Balotra (Class 12th). Secretary DLSA/Sub-Judge Mrs. Kamiya Singh Andotra emphasized the importance of the POCSO Act in safeguarding children against sexual offences, highlighting its gender-neutral provisions and child-friendly procedures. She also discussed the importance of prompt FIR registration, medical examinations, and in-camera trials to protect the identity and rights of child victims.
Further, the session covered the Juvenile Justice Act’s focus on the rehabilitation and protection of children, stressing that the law recognizes children’s emotional and social development needs, beyond just legal accountability. The Principal Magistrate JJB Kathua, Mrs. Cheena Sumbria, stressed on balancing justice with empathy and urged stakeholders to prioritize reform over punishment.
CWC Chairperson Shashi Paul elaborated on the Child Welfare Committee’s role in ensuring immediate care for children in distress, including foster care and rehabilitation measures.
Advocates Naiya Sharma, Puneet Kumari, and Sumit Jasrotia shared valuable insights on balancing justice with compassion under these laws.
Students actively participated through poetry, speeches, and a Nukad Natak, making the event engaging and informative. The programme witnessed the participation of over 400 students and staff, with concluding remarks and a vote of thanks delivered by Principal Mangal Singh.
