In a recently-held event, Participation of Children in the Formulation of Tamil Nadu State Child Policy and Children Election Manifesto, 40 children selected from Chennai, Erode, Tiruchirappalli and Madurai explained the necessity of children participating in State Commissions for Protection of Child Rights (SCPCR) and School Management Committees. This, they said, would help them understand the decisions taken to protect child rights.
Sivaranjini, a first year college student and also secretary of Federation of Children Movements for Right to Participation, says, “Our focus is on protecting our right to live, develop, protection and participate. In the formulation of state child policy, we would like to give our opinions for the growth of children to the adults.”
Virgil D Sami, state organiser, Forum for Promotion of Child Participation, says, “Participation in society is important for children, as they know what’s required in a family and society. Teachers and adults should give them a place to propose their ideas.”
Shivakumar, member of SCPCR says, “Children should know their rights and also use the funds allocated by the Government. Participation and protection are important for children to develop this society.”
Activities and discussions were conducted to propose their opinions.