LAHORE:
The rights defenders have requested the immediate application of the child protection policy approved by the Punjab cabinet.
The executive director of Search For Justice, Iftikhar Mubarak, emphasized the need for dedicated financing to ensure that policy does not remain a symbolic gesture. “It is essential that the next provincial budget includes a clear financial commitment to child protection and well -being,” he said, advocating a unified action plan that clearly defines the responsibilities of all relevant departments.
Network Rasheeda Qureshi Rasheeda Qureshi requested the integration of child protection measures in annual development and operational budgets of all public sector departments. He also recommended the introduction of child protection budget guidelines to guarantee the equitable distribution of resources and strengthen responsibility mechanisms.
Movement of the Child’s Rights The Punjab coordinator, Mudassar Ahmad, emphasized the urgency of rapid implementation. He proposed the establishment of Child Protection Committees at district levels and Tehsil to locate and operationalize the policy. “The role of the office has now expanded: it must strengthen interdepartmental coordination to move forward,” he added.
Civil society representatives urged the Punjab government not to stop in the approval of the policy.
