CJ for equal opportunities, collaborative efforts to address gaps in welfare schemes
SRINAGAR: The Juvenile Justice Committee of the High Court of J&K and Ladakh on Saturday hosted its Annual Consultation on the “Protection of Children with Disabilities” at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC).
The event was inaugurated by Chief Justice (A) Tashi Rabstan, Chairman of the Juvenile Justice Committee, in the presence of Justices Atul Sreedharan, Sindhu Sharma, Javed Iqbal Wani, Mohd. Akram Chowdhary, and Mohd. Yousuf Wani. Other High Court judges participated virtually.
Organized by the Juvenile Justice Committee in collaboration with the Child Welfare Committee, Supreme Court of India, UNICEF, Agri Industries Vikas Chamber, Social Welfare Department (UT of J&K), and the Social and Tribal Affairs Department (UT of Ladakh), the consultation gathered key stakeholders including department heads, Principal Magistrates, Medical Officers, academicians, police officers, and social activists from J&K and Ladakh.
Chief Justice Rabstan addressed the critical issues facing children with disabilities, emphasizing the need for equal opportunities and highlighting gaps in welfare schemes. He called for collaborative efforts from all stakeholders and recognized the important role of NGOs and social organizations in this regard.
Justice Atul Sreedharan discussed the correlation between state health and educational facilities and the prevalence of disabilities among children. Justice Sindhu Sharma focused on the challenges faced by these children, including social stigma and limited access to resources, and advocated for comprehensive and inclusive measures.
Justice Javed Iqbal Wani highlighted the legislative frameworks protecting children with disabilities, urging strict enforcement of these laws and emphasizing judicial oversight.
The consultation included technical sessions chaired by M.K. Sharma, Principal Secretary to the Chief Justice, and Rajinder Sapru, Registrar Rules, among others. Topics covered included government welfare schemes, education and health services, juvenile justice synchronization, and future strategies for addressing disabilities and child protection issues.