Expressing concern over the delay in police action in an alleged assault on two juveniles lodged at the Place of Safety (Bal Sudhar Kendra) in Madhuban, Haryana State Commission for Protection of Child Rights chairperson Tripti Sheoran on Thursday directed the police to register a case without further delay.
She also pulled up police personnel for their inadequate understanding of the provisions of the Juvenile Justice Act and called for immediate steps to strengthen child protection mechanisms in the district.
The development comes after the Haryana Human Rights Commission ordered a comprehensive inquiry into the matter, directing the Police Department, the Women and Child Development Department and the Superintendent of the Place of Safety at Madhuban to submit separate detailed reports.
According to the complaints, the two boys were staying at the Place of Safety under the orders of the Juvenile Justice Board when they were allegedly assaulted by two staff members using pipes and belts, leaving them with multiple injuries.
The complainants alleged that the children were taken to hospital, where their medico-legal reports recorded multiple injuries. They further claimed that although the matter was reported to Madhuban police station, no effective action had been taken and the complainants had not been informed whether a case had been registered or about the status of the investigation.
“Chairperson has directed DSP to ensure that an FIR should be registered without further delay,” said an official.
Sheoran also instructed officials to produce the children before the Child Welfare Committee and organise special training programmes for all Child Welfare Police Officers in the district. Stressing the need for better safeguards for children, she called for strengthening the Juvenile Police Unit.
During an inspection of the residential facility, Sheoran found the rooms to be in satisfactory condition but expressed concern over unhygienic bathrooms and toilets. She directed the authorities to take immediate corrective measures to improve cleanliness and sanitation.
Later, she paid a surprise visit to the Bal Bhavan in Karnal, where children were found studying. She expressed dissatisfaction over the slow progress in restoring eligible children to their families and promoting non-institutional care. She directed the Child Welfare Committee to review all such cases immediately and expedite family restoration wherever possible.
“Violations of children’s rights or administrative negligence in matters concerning their safety and well-being would not be tolerated,” said Sheoran, adding that the Commission would ensure prompt and strict action against any lapses affecting children’s rights.