[ Prem Chetry ]

BOMDILA, 25 Aug: The West Kameng District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) organised a legal awareness programme at Modern School here on Tuesday to sensitise students to key child protection laws such as the POCSO Act, Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, and their right to education.

DLSA Secretary Tashi Wangchu spoke on the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006, explaining the legal age of marriage for males and females. He also highlighted its adverse impact on the biological and overall development of both parents and children.

He also dwelt on the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009, stating that education is a fundamental right of every child up to the age of 14 years. He encouraged every child to avail of free and compulsory education.

Chief legal aid defence counsel Dorjee Tsering Sermupa explained the POCSO Act, 2012. He highlighted that the Act is gender-neutral and provides protection and access to justice to minor boys, girls and children of diverse gender identities.

Emphasising the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, Sermupa explained the concepts of children in conflict with law and children in need of care and protection, along with the remedial and rehabilitation measures available for such children.

Deputy chief legal aid defence counsel Lham Tsering spoke on good touch and bad touch, as well as drug and substance abuse. He encouraged students to stay away from drugs and other narcotic substances.

The students enthusiastically participated in the interactive session and raised queries on various legal issues.