Every child is entitled to care, protection, dignity, education, development and protection from abuse, exploitation and unlawful employment.
India protects children's rights through constitutional provisions and several specific laws.
Protection from Sexual Offences
The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012 (POCSO Act) protects children from sexual assault, sexual harassment and pornography and provides for Special Courts.
The Act came into force on 14 November 2012.
It also contains provisions concerning reporting of offences, child-sensitive procedures, Special Courts and assistance to children.
Protection from Child Labour
The Child and Adolescent Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986, as amended, prohibits employment of children and prohibits adolescents from hazardous occupations and processes, subject to the statutory framework.
The Act was enacted on 23 December 1986 and its original provisions came into force on 26 May 1993.
Key Areas of Child Protection
- Child abuse
- Sexual offences against children
- Sexual harassment
- Child trafficking
- Child labour
- Hazardous employment of adolescents
- Forced or exploitative labour
- Child exploitation
- Violence and neglect
- Other offences affecting children
What Is the Benefit?
Child-protection laws provide special legal safeguards and dedicated mechanisms for reporting, investigation and judicial proceedings in applicable cases.
POCSO, for example, provides for Special Courts and specific procedures designed for cases involving children.
How Can You Protect a Child?
If you suspect that a child is being abused, exploited or unlawfully employed:
- Do not ignore the situation.
- If there is immediate danger, contact the appropriate emergency or police authority.
- Report suspected offences through the appropriate statutory mechanism.
- Preserve relevant information without placing the child at further risk.
- Do not publicly disclose the child's identity or sensitive personal information.
- Seek appropriate legal and child-protection assistance.
CRPC Assistance
CRPC may provide general awareness and guidance regarding child-protection mechanisms and facilitate access to appropriate authorities or support institutions.
