A Workshop on “Strengthening of Child Protection Mechanism in Railways” in the railway premises and trains was held today i.e., 2nd December, 2020 at Centre for Economic and Social Studies (CESS), Hyderabad. This is an initiative by Railway Protection Force, South Central Railway in collaboration with Terre des Hommes – Netherlands, Children of Indian Foundation and CPRL-CESS, Hyderabad. Shri Mahesh Bhagwat, Commissioner of Police, Rachakonda, Hyderabad was the Chief Guest and Shri G.M.Eshwar Rao, Principal Chief Security Commissioner, Railway Protection Force, South Central Railway was the Guest of Honour. Senior RPF officials, RPF & Police Personnel, Staff and NGO members were present during the workshop.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri. Mahesh Bhagwat stated that Police are able to control the prevention of child / human trafficking only with the great support and co-operation from Railway Protection Force, other responsible Government departments and Non-Governmental Organizations in the state of Telangana. As trafficking is always considered as the “basket of crime” which is also an organized crime, he suggested improving their knowledge on protecting child in distress found in the railway stations. Shri Bhagwat said that as the women and children are most vulnerable to trafficking, requested the RPF to have special attention on identifying and rescuing the suspected victims and offenders. Speaking on the importance of effective implementation of existing Acts, he requested the Law enforcement officials to have the effective prevention, protection and prosecution. He also advised on maintaining the confidentiality of identity of victims of such abuses. He called upon everyone to work with dedication and passion, irrespective of the level of profession, for protecting children.
Speaking on the need to prioritize on protecting children in distress at the Railway Stations, Shri G.M.Eswara Rao said along with protecting railway property and providing security to passengers, every RPF personnel should concentrate on identifying and rescuing the children and women found in distress. He said that SCR RPF have rescued around 2300 children and replaced them to their native locations. Assuring to end child exploitation, he advised the participants to adopt the SOP on Child protection. Shri S.R.Gandhi, Sr. Divisional Security Commissioner said that with the support and co-operation from all the departments and different stake holders of child protection, RPF is in forefront in child protection. Shri David Raj, State Senior Program Officer, Integrated Child Protection scheme briefed the officials on the child related Acts and role of Police and RPF in protecting the children. The participants of the workshop included Senior RPF officials, Child Welfare Police Officers, Child Helpline representatives and representation from NGO My Choice Foundation.
