MANSI BHAMBRI/Dehradun
The current location of the State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (SCPCR) office, far from the city centre is a cause for concern among the public, especially parents. They claimed that the SCPCR, meant to assist children and ensure protection of their rights, is situated at a distance that makes it problematic for them to access the commission for presenting issues or problems faced by children. The parents have urged the authorities to relocate the SCPCR office to the city centre.
Notably, the SCPCR office is currently located at Nanda Ki Chowki, Suddhowala area on the outskirts of the city. Parents have expressed their concerns and requested the authorities to relocate the office closer in the city.
A parent Mona Singh said that she has frequently contemplated visiting the SCPCR office due to numerous concerns about the fee hikes in private schools and other issues related to children’s rights. However, the office’s distant location from the city centre has deterred her from making the trip. She emphasised the importance of the commission and questioned its location, suggesting it is not suitable for residents. She urged the authorities to take this matter seriously and relocate the SCPCR office to a more accessible location in the city.
Another parent, Sahil Chanchal (name changed) echoed his sentiments stating, “It is indeed true that the SCPCR office is situated far from the city. As a parent, there are several issues that I and many others would like to bring to the commission’s attention for support. Unfortunately, the distant location makes it difficult for us to visit the SCPCR.”
Many other parents have shared similar concerns regarding the location of the SCPCR office. The former chairperson of the SCPCR, Usha Negi has also voiced her concern about the office being situated far from the city. She said that during her time as chairperson, she had also raised this issue and submitted a proposal to the State government. As a result, the commission made efforts to locate a suitable site for the SCPCR in the city. However, they were unable to find a viable location at that time. Negi said that individuals travelling from other districts find it challenging to reach the SCPCR office and it would be much more convenient if it were situated in the city centre. She emphasised that this is a critical issue that the relevant authorities should take into account to ensure the establishment of the SCPCR at a central location in the city.
