Gujarat govt drafts new child protection policy, seeks public feedback

Gandhinagar: The Social Justice and Empowerment Department of the Gujarat Government has published a draft of the Gujarat State Child Protection Policy to strengthen child safety measures across the state. The draft policy aims to create a society in Gujarat where every child is respected, protected, and empowered to realize their full potential, ensuring their rights to safety, education, health, and development.

The government has invited public suggestions and objections regarding the draft policy within 90 days from its publication on April 1, 2025. The policy will apply to all government and non-government institutions, statutory bodies, and individuals working with children, including schools, media, healthcare, and childcare institutions. It also covers children in vulnerable situations, such as children with disabilities, migrant children, orphans, street children, children affected by natural disasters, and children in conflict zones.

As part of this policy, the Gujarat government has issued 22 guidelines for organizations, institutions, and establishments (including media).

Key provisions include a zero-tolerance policy for child abuse, mandatory background checks for employees working with children, and strict compliance with child protection laws, such as the POCSO Act and Juvenile Justice Act. Organizations must designate child protection officers and prominently display helpline numbers like CHILDLINE 1098.

Authorities have urged stakeholders to review the draft and submit feedback to the Principal Secretary, Social Justice and Empowerment Department, Sachivalaya, Gandhinagar, before the deadline. DeshGujarat