By Tripura24.in Reporter
In a major step toward strengthening social safety nets, a high-level awareness program on “Child Marriage-Free India” and “Gender-Based Violence” was organized today at a private hotel in Agartala. The event, hosted by the Department of Social Welfare and Social Education (SWSE), brought together top policymakers and child rights advocates to deliberate on eliminating social evils from the state.
Inauguration and Ceremonial Start
The program commenced with the traditional lighting of the lamp by the esteemed guests, marking a symbolic commitment to dispelling the darkness of exploitation and inequality.
The event was graced by:
- Shri Tinku Roy, Hon’ble Minister for Social Welfare & Social Education and Youth Affairs.
- Smt. Jharna Debbarma, Chairperson of the Tripura Commission for Women.
- Smt. Jayanti Debbarma, Chairperson of the Tripura Commission for Protection of Child Rights (TCPCR).
- Shri Tapan Kumar Das, Director of the Social Welfare and Social Education Department.
Zero Tolerance for Child Marriage: Minister Tinku Roy
Addressing the gathering, Minister Tinku Roy emphasized the state government’s “zero-tolerance” policy regarding child marriage.
”Child marriage is not just a social issue; it is a direct violation of human rights that stunts the physical and mental growth of our future generation. Our government is committed to making Tripura a model state in child protection,” the Minister stated.
He further urged community leaders and NGOs to work in tandem with the administration to identify and stop such incidents at the grassroots level.
Tackling Gender-Based Violence (GBV)
The seminar also focused heavily on the rising need for awareness regarding Gender-Based Violence.
- Smt. Jharna Debbarma spoke about the legal recourse available to women and the importance of breaking the silence surrounding domestic and workplace violence.
- Smt. Jayanti Debbarma highlighted the psychological impact of violence on children and the role of the commission in ensuring a safe environment for every minor in Tripura.
Administrative Roadmap
Director Tapan Kumar Das provided a technical overview of the department’s ongoing initiatives. He stressed the importance of the Integrated Child Protection Scheme (ICPS) and the need for digitized monitoring to track vulnerable households. He noted that the department is working to ensure that every administrative block in Tripura is sensitized to the legal consequences of child marriage and gender discrimination.
