In a significant stride towards enhancing child protection in Assam, the Bazaricherra Police Station in Karimganj District has been transformed with the establishment of a Child-Friendly Police Corner. This initiative, inaugurated on September 30, 2024, by Caritas India’s Surokhit Shaishav Program partner, Seva Kendra Silchar, marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to create a safer environment for children.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by notable figures including Superintendent of Police (S.P.) Partha Protim Das, Officer In Charge Nilav Jyoti Nath, and Child Development Project Officer Navajyoti Kalita, alongside young child leaders and their parents. The establishment of this child-friendly space is a direct outcome of Caritas India’s commitment to promoting child rights and ensuring that children feel safe and supported when they seek help from law enforcement.

The Child-Friendly Police Station is designed to equip police personnel with the necessary knowledge and skills to protect child rights effectively. It aims to create an environment where children can openly express their concerns, particularly in sensitive cases such as sexual abuse. This initiative recognizes that many children may not have anyone else to turn to, especially when the abuser is someone they trust.

The Surokhit Shaishav program, which translates to “Safe Childhood,” is a comprehensive initiative aimed at safeguarding children’s rights across Assam, West Bengal, and Uttar Pradesh. Implemented by Caritas India and supported by Caritas Germany, Surokhit Shaishav focuses on reducing child labor, child marriage, and trafficking while enhancing access to education. The program operates in 13 districts and actively engages local communities and stakeholders to foster a culture of child protection.

Through community animation and empowerment efforts, Surokhit Shaishav encourages active participation from local residents in safeguarding children’s rights. This collaborative approach not only raises awareness about child protection issues but also mobilizes community members to take action against violations.

The new Child-Friendly Police Corner at Bazaricherra is equipped with toys, educational materials, and resources designed to create a welcoming atmosphere for children. This aligns with the Juvenile Justice (JJ) Act’s mandate that requires police stations to designate officers trained specifically in handling child-related cases. By establishing such corners, Caritas India ensures that every interaction with law enforcement is conducted in a manner that prioritizes the child’s well-being.

During the inauguration, S.P. Partha Protim Das emphasized the importance of collaboration between NGOs like Seva Kendra Silchar and local government bodies in combating violence against children. He acknowledged that creating a supportive environment for children—especially those in conflict with the law or in need of care—is crucial for effective child protection.
The establishment of the Child-Friendly Police Station is not merely a localized effort; it represents a broader commitment to strengthening child protection mechanisms throughout Assam. Caritas India aims to replicate this model across various police stations and outposts in the region, thereby expanding its impact on community safety.

As part of its ongoing initiatives, Caritas India continues to work closely with law enforcement agencies and community organizations to ensure that children’s rights are upheld consistently. The Surokhit Shaishav program serves as a vital platform for advocating for children’s needs and fostering an environment where they can thrive.

The inauguration of the Child-Friendly Police Station at Bazaricherra symbolizes hope for countless children who deserve protection and support. Through programs like Surokhit Shaishav, Caritas India is instrumental in animating communities and empowering stakeholders to become active participants in safeguarding children’s rights. As more child-friendly spaces emerge across Assam, the vision of a society where every child can grow up safe and secure becomes increasingly attainable.

This collaborative effort not only addresses immediate concerns but also lays the groundwork for sustainable change in how society perceives and protects its most vulnerable members—its children.