The District Child Protection Unit, Department of Social Welfare, Tuensang, conducted a comprehensive program on the role and responsibilities of Wards and Village Child Protection and Welfare Committee. The event took place on 18th November 2023 at the DC Conference Hall in Tuensang.

During the program, Yangthriba Sangtam, DCPO Tuensang, emphasized the collective responsibility to protect children aged 18 years and below. He outlined the structure under DCPU, including the Juvenile Justice Board, Child Working Committee, and SGDU. Stressing the importance of village-level committees in creating awareness about child safety and protection, he discouraged the direct referral of child-related issues to JJB. He highlighted the crucial role of Village Child Committees (VCC) in ensuring child protection at the village level, particularly emphasizing the immediate reporting in the case of orphans. He urged ward unions to emphasize that the law should not be taken into one's own hands but reported to the department. He emphasized that children below 18 years should be labeled as delinquents, not accused. The resource person also addressed various issues such as child sexual abuse, child labor, illegal adoption, runaway children, child marriage, and substance abuse.

The program was chaired by Lunang Lakiu, ADEO DCPU Tuensang. The welcome address was delivered by Akumba Yimkhiung, Member CWC, and the vote of thanks was delivered by Alemla Chang, Member JJB.

(Chingmak IA Tuensang)