Onlykashmir News Desk
Expressing concern over the stigmatizing of children by self-styled journalists by disclosing their identities, the Child Welfare Committee Chairperson has written to the Information Department to frequently conduct verifications of persons carrying mics, cameras, and other media accessories.
“There are several Admins of Social Media Pages which highlight the public interest matters related to the children which give a masse awareness to the parents, teachers, students, and other stakeholders about the child rights and the authorities before whom any violation of child rights can be agitated which is a positive and appreciable factor in the best interest of public and children at large. However, some of the social media handlers (so-called Journalists) are violating the laws and it is envisaged under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 (hereinafter referred to as JJ Act] that such person may be penalized besides initiating other actions with regard to their imprisonment for the term as prescribed under the JJ Act.” Reads the communication of the Chairperson of the Child Welfare Committee Dr Khair Ul Nisa with the information department.
“To curb the practice of the violation of the provisions of JJ Act, this Child Welfare Committee felt it apt and proper to educate one and all through a circular and accordingly the circular was issued vide no.: CWC/Srinagar/Cir/2024/02 Dated.30.05.2023 for circulation among all concern,” It reads.
“It has been observed that some of the persons acting as Journalists stigmatize the children by disclosing their identity and thereof becoming offenders before law.” It reads further.
“It is requested to kindly send copies of the attached circular to all the registered media persons for compliance. It is also requested to kindly provide a list of accredited/registered media persons or organizations for record and reference. It is also requested to kindly direct the concerned officers of your department to frequently conduct verification of the person carrying with them mics, cameras and other media accessories and acting as journalists,” the statement further reads.
