Guwahati: In a significant step toward strengthening the child protection ecosystem, top officials from the judiciary, police, bureaucracy, and child rights organisations convened in Guwahati on Sunday for the first-ever state-level dialogue under the ‘Sishu Mitra’ programme.
The event, hosted by the Assam Police, focused on enhancing coordination among departments to safeguard children, particularly those who come into contact with the justice system.
The dialogue marked a milestone in Assam’s efforts to build a child-centric justice system, aligning with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s vision of making child protection a systemic priority rather than a supplementary concern.
“This wasn’t just a routine meeting,” said Assam Director General of Police Harmeet Singh.
“It was about creating a space where we could speak openly, share challenges, and work toward practical solutions. Hosting this multi-stakeholder dialogue under ‘Sishu Mitra’ is a milestone in our journey toward child-friendly policing.”
Launched in 2019 by the Assam Police in collaboration with UTSAH Child Rights Organisation and UNICEF, the ‘Sishu Mitra’ initiative aims to create a more compassionate and responsive approach to child rights within the justice system.
The programme emphasises that protecting children is not an act of charity, but a constitutional obligation.
ALSO READ: Restrictions on tourists by religious group at Meghalaya’s Mawjymbuin cave stir controversy
Justice Kaushik Goswami of the Gauhati High Court underscored the moral and legal responsibility of all stakeholders.
“This is not just a good idea—it is our duty. Every institution involved in child welfare must work in unison to ensure justice for children,” he said.
Additional Chief Secretary (Home and Political) Ajay Tewari highlighted the pressing need to upgrade infrastructure in police stations, courts, and allied services to ensure children feel safe, supported, and understood at every stage of the process.
The dialogue marks a foundational step in institutionalising a collaborative, child-sensitive justice system in Assam, officials said.
