NSCPCR holds child rights awareness in Zunheboto

Nagaland State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NSCPCR), in collaboration with the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), organised a one-day awareness programme on “Child Rights & Child Protection” at VDB Hall, Zunheboto, on April 8.
Moderated by Childline Coordinator, Pollen Yepthomi, the programme featured sessions on key child protection issues and legal frameworks. Delivering the keynote address, NSCPCR chairman, Alun Hangsing, traced the history and evolution of child rights, stressing their importance in nation-building. He described children as the backbone of the nation and called for stronger groundwork to ensure their protection and development. Hangsing also urged stakeholders to take child rights seriously, cautioning that in the present technological era, children are increasingly exposed to negative influences online, making vigilance and awareness more crucial than ever.
Deputy Commissioner of Zunheboto, Tiameren Chang, expressed gratitude to the Commission and encouraged participants to spread awareness within their communities.
The programme also included an overview of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act by NSCPCR legal consultant, Lichani Murry, and a session on the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act by NSCPCR member, Akumla Longchari. District Child Protection Officer, Ruzonuo Rita Aye, presented a status report highlighting child-related issues in Zunheboto district from March 2025–2026, which recorded one juvenile justice case (pending), 41 Childline 1098 calls, and 22 cases of children in need of care and protection. The district currently has four Child Care Institutions (CCIs), including two NGO-run homes, one home for juveniles in conflict with law, and one Specialized Adoption Agency. The programme concluded with an open house discussion and a vote of thanks delivered by Legal-cum-Probation Officer, DCPU, Lavijing.