The EditorAdvocate Jeevan Singh Nain highlighted children’s rights, education, protection laws and government schemes during a legal awareness program at ITI Cheeka.
Children Are the Future Nation Builders, Society Must Protect Their Childhood: Jeevan Singh Nain
Guhla-Cheeka – Children hold a special place in Indian civilization and culture. They are often regarded as a form of God, with the belief that the divine resides in their innocent hearts. Since children are the future nation builders, protecting their childhood is the moral responsibility of every responsible citizen.
These views were expressed by Advocate Jeevan Singh Nain while addressing students at the Government ITI, Cheeka, under the Children’s Rights and Childhood Protection Awareness Campaign being conducted by NALSA (National Legal Services Authority).
Importance of Child Protection in Society
Advocate Nain emphasized that childhood is a crucial phase of life that shapes an individual’s future. Any form of exploitation, neglect, or abuse during this stage not only harms the child but also weakens society as a whole.
He urged students, parents, teachers, and citizens to collectively ensure that every child grows up in a safe, secure, and nurturing environment.
Right to Education Is a Fundamental Right
While explaining constitutional provisions, Advocate Jeevan Singh Nain said that Article 21A of the Indian Constitution guarantees free and compulsory education for children below the age of 14 years. This responsibility lies not only with the government but also with society at large.
He stressed that the Right to Education is a fundamental right, and no institution or authority can ignore or violate it under any circumstances.
Strict Ban on Child Labour
Advocate Nain informed the students that Articles 23 and 24 of the Constitution strictly prohibit bonded labour and forced labour involving children. No child below the age of 14 can be employed in hazardous work.
He added that any violation of child labour laws can be directly challenged in the High Court or the Supreme Court, highlighting the seriousness of these constitutional safeguards.
Every Child Has the Right to Life and Dignity
He explained that every child has the fundamental right to:
- Life
- Protection
- Development
- Participation
No individual or institution has the right to interfere with a child’s childhood or subject them to exploitation.
Advocate Nain further stated that if a child below 18 years of age becomes a victim of any sexual offence, strict laws such as the POCSO Act are applicable. These laws provide for severe punishment, including a minimum sentence of up to 20 years, ensuring strong protection for children.
Free Legal Aid for Children
Advocate Jeevan Singh Nain informed that State Legal Services Authorities have been established to provide free legal assistance to children. Guardians can submit a simple written application on plain paper to avail legal aid for children in any type of legal matter.
He also highlighted that if a child is accused in a criminal case, separate judicial procedures and hearings are conducted in child-friendly courts, ensuring justice with sensitivity.
Government Support for Vulnerable Children
The advocate stated that the state government remains sensitive toward children who drop out of school or college due to financial difficulties or other circumstances.
Special mention was made of children who lost their parents during the COVID-19 pandemic. Such children are being provided financial assistance of up to ₹4,000 per month, along with educational loans and other facilities, so that no child is deprived of education due to economic hardship.
Monthly Assistance for Orphaned and Vulnerable Children
Advocate Nain further explained that children whose parents have passed away, whose guardians are in jail, or who do not have any caretaker, are eligible for government assistance.
Families with a monthly income below ₹2 lakh can receive financial assistance of up to ₹1,600 per month for two children, helping them continue their education and basic needs.
Early Marriage Harms Child Development
Concluding his address, Advocate Jeevan Singh Nain warned against child marriage, calling it a major obstacle to a child’s physical, mental, and emotional development.
He said forcing children into marriage before they are mentally mature deprives them of their childhood. As per law:
- Minimum age for boys is 21 years
- Minimum age for girls is 18 years
Violation of these laws invites strict legal action.
Students Appreciated the Awareness Session
Students at Government ITI, Cheeka, showed keen interest during the session and actively listened to the legal provisions explained. Many students found the information useful and relevant to real-life situations.
The awareness program succeeded in educating young minds about their rights, responsibilities, and the importance of protecting childhood.
