Minister for Social Justice K.K. Shylaja has said that the government is all set to launch a vulnerability mapping survey to identify and rehabilitate children vulnerable to domestic violence. The endeavour is part of the measures being adopted to rein in the increasing prevalence of child abuse, especially by parents or close relatives.
Replying to questions in the Assembly, the Minister said the survey was among the steps recommended by the Shafeeq committee constituted in 2013, following the torture of a boy, Shafeeq, by his father and stepmother in Idukki. The survey, being implemented through anganwadis, will be undertaken from June to August.
Karuthal Sparsham
Besides, the government has also formulated a five-month mass awareness campaign, Karuthal Sparsham – Kaikorkkam Kuttikalkkayi , that will get under way with the observance of the Global Day of Parents on June 1 and continue until the Children’s Day on November 14.
Juvenile justice
In addition, the government has also constituted district-level Juvenile Justice Committees by integrating the child welfare committees, district child protection units, and the Juvenile Justice Board to strengthen vigilance against child abuse.
Legislation
Ms. Shylaja said that the government mulled over enacting a law to monitor the functioning of day-care centres, creches and play schools.
Steps would be taken to ensure that such facilities did not overburden children aged below 5 years and restricted their activities to efforts aimed at boosting their physical and mental health.
The proposed legislation will incorporate provisions from similar laws in force in other States and the guidelines laid down by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights and other child rights panels, the Minister said.
