Mumbai: In a significant initiative focused on protecting the rights and well-being of children, the Maharashtra Police have joined forces with UNICEF Maharashtra to establish a comprehensive training programme for Special Juvenile Police Units (SJPUs). This one-day in-person training session took place at the Sahyadri State Guest House in Mumbai and gathered key stakeholders to improve child-centric policing practices throughout the state.

The partnership highlights a shared commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment for children by strengthening the capacity of police personnel within Special Juvenile Police Units (SJPUs). These units play a crucial role in implementing the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, as well as other important legislation such as the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, and the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006.

A.N. Roy, former Director General of Police in Maharashtra, stated, “Our culture has always emphasised the protection of children. In today’s world, it is the responsibility of both the government and society. We have powerful legislation and robust acts in place. We need to utilize these resources and raise awareness. Both these laws and awareness are essential. As a police official, you have the power to make a significant impact and change the lives of children who are victims or are in conflict with the law. We can assist them in their reform, and the Special Juvenile Police Unit is an excellent initiative to achieve this.”

Further, Aswati Dorje, IPS, Additional Director General of Police (Prevention of Crime against Women and Children) said, “Child-friendly policing is not just a responsibility; it is our moral obligation to ensure that every child feels safe, heard and protected when they come into contact with the law.”

Next, Sanjay Singh, chief field office, UNICEF Maharashtra, expressed, “Every child deserves a childhood free from fear and harm. Strengthening Special Juvenile Police Units is a critical step toward creating a protective environment where children’s rights are upheld, and their voices are valued. Child friendly is not about responding but preventing crime.”

Notably, while progress has been made, challenges still exist in effectively implementing child-focused frameworks. Limited capacities, a lack of understanding of juvenile justice principles, and insufficient knowledge of child protection systems have hindered optimal functioning. Recognising these challenges, this initiative aims to address them through targeted training that equips officers with the necessary skills and knowledge to adopt child-friendly approaches.

The training aimed to enhance participants’ understanding of child rights, protection mechanisms, and the philosophy behind juvenile justice administration. It emphasised practical aspects of the Juvenile Justice (JJ) Act and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, equipping officers to effectively handle cases involving Children in Conflict with the Law (CICL), Children in Need of Care and Protection (CNCP), and child victims. The training included interactive sessions such as presentations, panel discussions, case studies, and role-playing exercises to promote experiential learning.

Key speakers included Suvarna Pawar, Deputy Divisional Commissioner, Women and Child Development Division, Nandini Awade, Member Secretary, Maharashtra State Women’s Commission,  Santosh Shinde, former member, MSCPCR and founder, Vidhayak Bharti, Sachi Maniar, founder, Ashiyana Foundation, Rahul Kantikar, Superintendent, Govt. Observation Home, Dongri, Sumitra Ashtikar, former chairperson, CWC, Thane, Govind Beniwal, Child Protection Officer, UNICEF Maharashtra, Uma Subramanian, director, RATI Foundation, Mahesh Aathawale, Retd. PI, Maharashtra Police, and Alpa Vora, Child Protection Specialist, UNICEF Maharashtra.

In addition, District Child and Women Development Officer for Mumbai city Sobha Shellar was also present at the event.

The event also marked the formal launch of the Child-Friendly Policing Initiative, emphasising the importance of collaboration between law enforcement and child protection authorities. By fostering cooperation among stakeholders, the initiative aims to establish a strong support system for vulnerable children. This training represents a significant step toward transforming policing practices in Maharashtra, ensuring that every child receives care, dignity and justice.