NLUO launches its child protection committees in three settlements of Cuttack

The National Law University Odisha (NLUO) launched Community-Level Child Protection Committees (CLCPCs) in Brajabeharipur, Valmiki Nagar, and Baba Tilkanagar areas of Cuttack on Monday.

The initiative, part of NLUO’s Project Kutumb, seeks to strengthen child safety through community-driven monitoring and rapid response to abuse or exploitation, stated a press release by the university.

The launch was conducted in the presence of Cuttack Mayor Subhas Chandra Singh, District Child Protection Officer Pragati Mohanty, and NLUO Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ved Kumari. Notably, the committees include youth groups, teachers, ASHA workers, Anganwadi staff, parents, and local leaders.

Roles and Training of CLCPCs

The CLCPCs will identify at-risk children, ensure access to welfare schemes, and report violations.

Members received training on legal safeguards, reporting mechanisms, and fostering child-friendly environments. Regular refresher programs and links to District Child Protection Units (DCPUs) will keep committees active.

Project Kutumb, started in 2022, aligns with India’s Mission Vatsalya to decentralise child protection. It focuses on vulnerable settlements, using data-driven strategies to address gaps in education, healthcare, and safety.

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Community and State Collaboration

NLUO emphasised collaboration between residents and authorities. Moreover, the university will provide technical support to CLCPCs, ensuring grievance redressal and service delivery.

Meanwhile, the initiative ties into Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), marking their 10th anniversary. As part of the launch, NLUO’s Centre for Child Rights (CCR) conducted vulnerability mapping in the settlements to tailor interventions. Local contributions, such as infrastructure upgrades by Brajabeharipur residents, reflect community ownership.

CLCPCs will serve as the first point of contact for reporting issues, ensuring timely action, whereas the overall project aims to transform these areas into models where children’s voices shape their futures.