Keisham Pradipkumar, the Chairperson of the Manipur Commission for Protection of Child Rights (MCPCR), has voiced grave concerns about the welfare of children in Manipur, stressing the importance of keeping children under 18 out of the ongoing conflict, particularly as village defense volunteers. Pradipkumar articulated these concerns during the “Convergence Workshop Amongst Stakeholders Working in the Field of Child Rights & Education,” organized by the MCPCR under the Government of Manipur at the Manipur Press Club.Highlighting the dire situation, Pradipkumar noted that out of the 60,000 displaced individuals, over 25,000 are children under 18. He emphasized the urgent need for healthcare, immunization, nutritional support, and educational provisions for these displaced children, stressing that collaboration among stakeholders is crucial to providing comprehensive support.
Pradipkumar passionately underscored the severity of the current situation in Manipur, especially amidst the conflict between the Kuki and Meitei communities. He asserted that children must be shielded from the impacts of war, advocating strongly for their protection and access to essential needs like food, healthcare, and education. Addressing the geographical diversity of Manipur, Pradipkumar emphasized the importance of supporting children in both valley and hill regions, urging authorities to ensure safe passage and necessary supplies for children during these turbulent times.
On the policy front, Pradipkumar urged the government to expedite the approval and enactment of the Manipur State Policy For Children 2020, citing its relevance in addressing challenges like the loss of children’s documents due to conflict. Stressing the urgency of its enactment, he highlighted its potential to provide crucial support to displaced students and affected children across the state. Following Pradipkumar’s plea, Ngangom Uttam, Director of the Social Welfare Department, pledged to advocate for the swift enactment of the policy, emphasizing its flexibility and capacity for amendment to better align with evolving needs. Uttam also endorsed Pradipkumar’s stance on excluding children under 18 from involvement in the conflict, prioritizing their safety and well-being. He invited suggestions to enhance the policy’s effectiveness, ensuring it serves the best interests of Manipur’s children.