The West Kameng District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) organised a legal awareness programme at Modern School on Tuesday to educate students about key child protection laws and their legal rights. DLSA Secretary Tashi Wangchu explained the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006, including the legal age of marriage and the harmful effects of early marriage on the physical, biological and overall development of children and parents. He also highlighted the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009, emphasising that every child has the right to free and compulsory education up to the age of 14 years. Chief Legal Aid Defence Counsel Dorjee Tsering Sermupa provided an overview of the POCSO Act, 2012, stressing that it is gender-neutral and protects minor boys, girls and children of diverse gender identities while ensuring access to justice. He also discussed the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, explaining provisions for children in conflict with law and those in need of care and protection, including rehabilitation measures. Deputy Chief Legal Aid Defence Counsel Lham Tsering addressed good touch and bad touch and cautioned students against drug and substance abuse. The interactive programme encouraged students to understand their rights, recognise potential risks and seek appropriate support when needed. Students actively participated in the session and raised questions on various legal and child protection issues.
