Child rights remain ignored, says nine-year-old activist

New Delhi, November 16

Child rights remain ignored as there are none to promote them and the children themselves are not given much attention, a nine-year-old activist today said.

In a media interaction, child rights activists Simran (16) and Ram (9), who worked with the 'NINEISMINE' campaign, shared their experiences.

"There are 45 exclusive child rights. They are very much there, but they need to be worked on. We are not heard as we are children," Ram said.

Referring to a survey on 5,000 children under the campaign that advocates for six and three per cent budget allocation for education and health, the two activists shared issues related to child rights.

They said that a large number of children face abuse not only outside, but also inside their homes.

"There have been cases where children left home or committed suicide due to their own family members," Ram said.

Simran suggested sensitisation of various agencies on dealing with children who approach them for help.

"The police should treat children in a friendly manner and there should be counsellors at police stations to help them," the activist said.

Providing access to children at different forums, including the media, and giving them a platform to express their views is very important, UNICEF communication officer Sonia Sarkar said. — PTI