Patna: Bihar Police on Friday launched Child Help Desks and Child Corners in all 1,373 police stations across the state as part of a special initiative marking Gandhi Jayanti.
The initiative has been undertaken in accordance with Section 8(5) of the Bihar Police Act, 2007, and guidelines issued by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR).
Focus On Child-Friendly Policing
Set up under the guiding principle “Children’s Safety, Our Priority”, the desks are intended to provide a fear-free, sensitive and child-friendly space for children visiting police stations in connection with a case or seeking help or assistance.
The initiative aims to enable children to speak about their concerns without hesitation.
Standard boards displayed at the desks provide four key assurances:
- Speak: Tell us about your problem.
- You will be heard: Your information will remain confidential.
- Help to be offered: Advice, guidance and necessary assistance will be provided.
- You are safe: We are with you.
Desks To Operate Away From Lock-Ups
The Child Help Desks have been established separately from police station lock-ups and will function under the Child Welfare Police Officer (CWPO).
Flex boards and signboards installed at the police stations display the mobile numbers of the officers concerned. Designated officials will remain available to respond to children or parents and guardians seeking help or assistance.
Female Personnel To Assist Girls
A qualified female police personnel will be deputed at each Child Help Desk or Corner to communicate with girls seeking assistance and help address their concerns.
Complaints received through the desks will be acted upon within a stipulated timeframe, with complete records of the action taken maintained.
Senior Officers To Monitor Desks
The Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), Special Crime-cum-In-Charge Officer, Special Juvenile Police Unit and other senior officers will regularly monitor the relevant registers and the work carried out by the Child Welfare Police Officers.
The initiative is aimed at strengthening a child-sensitive approach within police stations and ensuring that children seeking assistance have a designated space where they can communicate their concerns safely.
