TIMERGARA: The District Child Protection Committee in Lower Dir has held a meeting to review measures for protecting children’s rights, improving their welfare and supporting the rehabilitation of vulnerable children across the district.
The meeting was chaired by Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Dr Iza Arshad in accordance with the directives of Deputy Commissioner Lower Dir Basharat Ahmad Khan.
During the meeting, Child Protection Officer Muhammad Tayyab delivered a detailed briefing on child protection concerns, highlighting the risks and forms of exploitation faced by children.
These included physical violence and corporal punishment, harmful practices, sexual abuse and exploitation, child labour, child begging, drug addiction, and cases involving runaway or abandoned children. The briefing also highlighted the deprivation of basic facilities as a concern affecting children’s well-being.
Authorities Directed to Strengthen Coordination
Dr Iza Arshad directed the relevant authorities to improve coordination between the police and the Child Protection Unit to ensure timely and coordinated responses to child protection cases.
She also instructed all concerned government departments to fulfil their responsibilities effectively and take practical measures to protect vulnerable children, improve their welfare and support their rehabilitation.
The meeting emphasised that effective child protection requires coordinated action among all relevant departments to safeguard children’s rights and provide a safe and supportive environment for their development.
The committee’s discussions focused on strengthening institutional cooperation and ensuring that children facing abuse, exploitation or neglect receive appropriate protection and support.