The Gauhati High Court has issued a directive to the State Government, urging them to officially notify both the Child Protection Policy and the regulations outlined in the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection) Act by June 24, 2024.

The division bench, comprising Justice Kalyan Rai Surana and Justice Arun Dev Choudhury expressed optimism that the High Court-appointed Committee would successfully conduct inspections of all Child Care Institutions in the State by June 24.

During the court proceedings, a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Bachpan Bachao Andolan and Sampurna Behura regarding child rights issues was being heard.

The State's Counsel informed the court that as of March 27, 2024, the High Court Committee had conducted 58 visits, encompassing Child Care Institutions (CCIs) across several districts including Kamrup (Metro), Kamrup, Darrang, Baksa, Sonitpur, Nagaon, Morigaon, Cachar, Hailakandi, Karimganj, Nalbari, Barpeta, and Udalguri. The inspections were conducted in accordance with the guidelines outlined in Form no. 46 of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Model Rules, 2016.

Additionally, it was stated that the State Child Protection Society had organized a one-day training program for social workers from Juvenile Justice Boards across multiple districts, as previously mentioned. The first phase of training occurred in November 2023, followed by the second phase in February 2024, which specifically targeted the Chairpersons and members of the Child Welfare Committees.

“We hope and trust that the recommendations and suggestions from Bachpan Bachao Andolan shall be forwarded to the State Govt. for its consideration. We also hope and trust that the State Govt., after due consideration, will approve and notify the Child Protection Policy for the State of Assam at the earliest, hopefully before the next date of listing.”

The Court also conveyed its dissatisfaction regarding the significant delay in the finalization of the agency responsible for conducting the social audit. It remarked that such delays do not seem to serve the public interest.

The matter is again listed on June 24.

Case Title: Bachpan Bachao Andolan & Anr. v. The State of Assam & 4 Ors.

Case No.: PIL/60/2019