Patna: Bihar Police will establish Child Help Desks or Child Corners across all 1,377 police stations and outposts in the state by October 2, with the initiative aimed at providing children with a dedicated and child-friendly space within police premises.
Police Headquarters has issued directives to Superintendents of Police in all districts regarding the initiative. District authorities have been asked to submit compliance reports to the Weaker Section wing of the Crime Investigation Department by October 5.
Dedicated Space For Children
The initiative is intended to strengthen the response to crimes involving children while providing them with a space where they can discuss their concerns and seek assistance at police stations.
The desks will also provide information about laws concerning children, including provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
The initiative is being implemented 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).
Desks To Remain Separate From Lock-Ups
The Child Help Desk or Child Corner will be located at a clearly visible place within the police station premises and will be kept completely separate from the lock-up.
The space will have a child-friendly design and a distinct appearance from other parts of the police station. It will operate under the Child Welfare Police Officer (CWPO) of the concerned police station.
The name, designation and mobile number of the CWPO, along with the name and mobile number of the District Child Protection Officer (DCPO), will be displayed at each desk.
Female Police Personnel For Girls’ Cases
Trained female police personnel will be deployed at police stations to assist with matters concerning girls and facilitate communication with them.
The mobile numbers displayed at the desks will remain active so that complaints and requests for assistance from children, parents or guardians can receive prompt attention.
Complaints will be dealt with within the prescribed timeframe, while details of their disposal will be maintained in a register.
DSP-Level Monitoring
The Child Help Desks and Child Corners will be regularly monitored by Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP)-rank officials. Officers in charge of the Special Juvenile Police Unit (SJPU), along with other senior district-level officials, will also supervise the functioning of the desks.
The monitoring mechanism is intended to ensure sensitive and effective policing in matters involving children. Regular supervision and proper record-keeping will also be undertaken.
The state-wide rollout is scheduled for Gandhi Jayanti on October 2, while districts have been directed to submit their compliance reports to the CID’s Weaker Section wing by October 5.
