Itanagar: The Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (APSCPC PCR) on Monday lauded the state government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Pema Khandu, for approving the model guidelines for support of persons under Section 39 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
In a statement, the Commission hailed the approval as a “landmark initiative” that will establish a robust framework to provide comprehensive support to child survivors of sexual offenses throughout the legal process. The APSCPCR also commended the Women and Child Development department for its dedication and proactive role in drafting and implementing these guidelines, which are designed to foster a child-sensitive and justice-driven approach across Arunachal Pradesh.
APSCPC Chairperson Ratan Anya described the approval as a “historic and progressive step” towards creating a safer environment for children. “These guidelines will ensure that child survivors receive the emotional, psychological, and legal support they need to navigate the justice system with dignity and confidence. We are grateful to the chief minister and the women and child development department for their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the rights and well-being of children,” she stated.
In a related development, an SCPCR team, led by Chairperson Anya and member Ngurang Achung, recently visited Roing to conduct a detailed inquiry into a recent case of sexual assault involving minors at a local school. The investigation included interactions with the Child Welfare Committee, District Child Protection Unit, NGOs, parents, and the school’s management. A stakeholder meeting was also convened under the chairmanship of Lower Dibang Valley Deputy Commissioner Fwwrman Brahma.
During an inspection of the school premises, the Commission observed significant negligence on the part of the school authorities regarding child safety and security. The SCPCR Chairperson instructed the Deputy Director of School Education in the district to ensure all affected students are enrolled in institutions of their choice without denial of admission, preventing any loss of academic year.
Furthermore, the Commission urged the Superintendent of Police to take strict legal action against the school authorities under Section 21 of the POCSO Act, 2012, and other relevant legal provisions. This action is sought for their failure to report the matter to the police and for concealing the crime when the minors initially raised complaints.
The SCPCR team also met with all five victims and their families, providing counseling on filing First Information Reports (FIRs) and informing them about the assistance available under the Arunachal Pradesh Victim Compensation Act, 2011. This Act offers financial support to victims to help alleviate the emotional and financial hardships caused by such crimes.
Based on its inquiry, the Chairperson recommended the permanent closure of the school due to gross negligence in ensuring student safety and for operating without official recognition from the competent authority since 2015. The Commission also praised the prompt action taken by the Deputy Commissioner, who constituted a school safety and security audit board to review safety protocols in all schools across the district, with the audit report expected within seven days.
The Roing incident involved at least eight minor girls who were subjected to physical abuse at a private school by a migrant youth from neighboring Assam. The youth was later lynched by a mob on July 11. Police reported that the youth was working at a construction site near the school.