RTE Complaints Top DCPCR List as Child Rights Body Records 377 Cases

The Delhi Commission for Protection of Child Rights (DCPCR) has received 377 complaints since its reconstitution in July, including 38 cases registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, with Right to Education (RTE) issues accounting for the largest share.

According to data released by the child rights body, 206 complaints were related to RTE, followed by 87 concerning juvenile justice, 38 POCSO cases, 17 involving missing children, 16 related to child labour and 13 concerning health and nutrition.

The commission also said it had taken suo motu cognisance in 56 cases during the period.

Among Delhi's districts, North-West Delhi recorded the highest number of complaints at 61, followed by North-East with 38, East with 35, West with 34 and North with 30. South-West and South recorded 41 complaints each, while Central registered 25 and South-East 24. Another 22 complaints were classified as miscellaneous.

DCPCR Chairperson Om Prakash Vyas said the commission had issued a notice to the deputy commissioner of police concerned following the alleged rape of a 17-year-old girl at Astha Kunj Park. The notice seeks an action-taken report within two weeks.

Vyas said the commission had written to the lieutenant governor, chief minister and MCD mayor/commissioner seeking mandatory, regular self-defence classes in schools across Delhi.

The DCPCR is also conducting a city-wide POCSO awareness campaign covering safe and unsafe touch, reporting of offences and mental health counselling for children, parents and school staff.

Its Child Beggar-Free Delhi initiative focuses on rescue, long-term care, emotional rehabilitation and mainstreaming children into formal schools. The campaign will feature the slogan “Bheekh nahi Seekh” and is expected to be launched within a month.

The commission has also launched a child complaint helpline at 9220999390 and plans to hire young adults who previously stayed in childcare centres after they turn 18.