744 vulnerable children cases addressed in Dehradun, two child marriage cases reported
PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE /Dehradun
As many as 744 vulnerable children have been identified or rescued in Dehradun since December 2024, while two child marriage cases were reported through Child Helpline-1098, officials said on Thursday. The figures were discussed during a child protection meeting chaired by Dehradun district magistrate Ashish Chauhan, who directed officials to strengthen protection, education, counselling and rehabilitation efforts.
Among the 744 children rescued, 111 were involved in begging, 173 were rag pickers, 101 were found in child labour, 307 were school dropouts and 52 belonged to other vulnerable categories. Of these, 216 children have been enrolled in schools.
Officials said that the Child Helpline-1098 received 200 cases between April and June and another 174 cases from July onwards. These included two child marriage cases and 46 child labour cases. The DM directed officials to ensure counselling and regular follow-up in sensitive cases.
The Child Welfare Committee received 236 cases during the past three months and disposed of 120. Six children living in child care homes were also legally cleared for adoption. The administration also reviewed 19 child care homes housing 302 children. The DM directed officials to ensure proper food, education, healthcare and safety facilities for the children.
