Renowned child rights activist and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Kailash Satyarthi has embarked on a new initiative to eradicate child crime at the village level, in collaboration with multiple non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
The campaign aims to raise awareness about child crimes and ensure strict actions against those involved.
In the initial phase, 300 villages in Meerut and Baghpat have been selected in association with the Janhit Foundation to participate in this noble endeavour.
Under the campaign, each village will establish a committee named Bal Mitra, comprising 15 individuals, including the village head, Anganwadi workers, and ASHAs (Accredited Social Health Activists).
“This committee will have several crucial responsibilities, including preventing child marriages, curbing child labour, and combating child trafficking. The committee will closely monitor any crimes committed against children and educate them about toll-free helpline numbers for immediate assistance,” said Anita Rana, director of Janhit Foundation.
Explaining the significance of the Bal Mitra committees, she said that these committees would play a vital role in the campaign, acting as the frontline defence against child crimes. By addressing various forms of child exploitation, they aim to create a safe environment for children in the selected villages.
“The effectiveness of the campaign will be assessed through a review process after one year. The evaluation will gauge the impact of the initiative, such as the number of children safeguarded from child crimes and the successful prosecution of offenders. Villages with less apparent progress will receive additional support by strengthening the Bal Mitra committees and increasing the number of child advocates,” Rana said.
She said Kailash Satyarthi aims to extend his mission to the grassroots level, fostering a culture that respects and safeguards the rights of every child through this campaign.