Unified towards protection and reclaiming childhood in West Bengal

2.45 % children are estimated to be out of schools and child labour was pegged at 2,34,275 according to 2011 Census.  A dropout child from school runs potential risk of being a victim of child labour.

Caritas India strongly believes and recognize the violation of child rights in any form be it child labour, sexual abuse, familial migrations, trafficking, or malnutrition.

Upholding the notion children protection by giving them a voice through choice, promoting self-esteem and recognizing them a right holder with the ability to influence and make the decision. Caritas India conducted two days planning and review meeting with 8 partners   (Anugyalaya Darjeeling Diocese Social Service Society, Bal Suraksha Abhiyan, Kolkata Mary Ward Social Centre, Seva Kendra Siliguri, Krishnagar Cathedral Charitable Social Society, Palli Unnayan Samiti Baruipur and Suprava Panchashila Mahila Uddyog Samity)  across West Bengal.

Stages of progression and Caritas India’s commitment towards child rights in West Bengal was explained by Ms. Asha R Ekka, Zonal Manager, East, followed by financial compliance session by Zone finance officer – Mukul Gomes at the two-day Planning and Review Meeting held from May 28-29, 2019 at West Bengal.

Highlighting, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) fundamentals and legal framework under child rights, Ms. Lee Macqueen – Manager Advocacy & Child  Rights strongly resonated that rights of children go far beyond human rights, which needs fair and proper treatment. Children, defined as any person under the age of 18, require special and more than just human rights due to unique needs stemming from their vulnerabilities.

Caritas India’s Child Protection Policy (Amendment) 2019 was shared which stipulates guidelines regarding recruitment of HR, case management, protection in emergencies, partnership requirement and standards and finally Policy audit and feedback mechanisms was put forth.

Future six months detailed plan was developed by 8 partners with its commitment towards the overall program objective to strengthen and sustain realization of child rights by addressing risks and vulnerabilities endangering child rights in the districts of North and South Bengal.