Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh State Legal Services Authority (UPSLSA) conducted a statewide special awareness campaign on the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, reaching more than 6.46 lakh students across 3,643 schools between September 25 and October 2. The campaign concluded on Gandhi Jayanti.
The initiative was conducted under the leadership of Supreme Court Chief Justice and Chief Patron of the National Legal Services Authority Justice Surya Kant, and Supreme Court Judge and Executive Chairman of NALSA Justice Vikram Nath. It was guided by Allahabad High Court Chief Justice and Chief Patron of UPSLSA Justice Arun Bhansali, and Senior Judge and Executive Chairman of UPSLSA Justice Arindam Sinha.
UPSLSA Member Secretary Dr Manu Kalia said judicial officers visited 3,643 schools and interacted directly with more than 6,46,100 students. Under the guidance of District Judges and District Legal Services Authorities, sessions were conducted in schools across urban, rural and remote areas.
During morning assemblies, students were educated about child rights, personal safety, bodily privacy, good touch and bad touch, speaking up against abuse and seeking assistance when required. Information on legal remedies, child protection helplines and legal aid services was also provided.
To ensure sustained awareness, one teacher from every participating school was designated as a nodal officer for child protection and POCSO-related legal awareness.
The campaign adopted interactive methods including discussions, awareness sessions, competitions, street plays and rallies to explain legal provisions in a simple and accessible manner. Students were also sensitised about misconceptions surrounding issues involving minors and the possible consequences of inadequate legal awareness.
The campaign emphasised that every child has the right to safety, dignity and protection, and that awareness is an important first step in preventing exploitation and abuse.
UPSLSA said it would continue strengthening child-focused legal literacy initiatives and promote awareness about child rights, legal assistance and access to justice across the state
