- (1.) There are six issues that still require consideration in the present petition: Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for children who are victims of violence We have been informed (and it has been recorded in our order dated 08.10.2018) that the Ministry of Women and Child Development is in the process of preparing / developing an SOP addressing the problem of violence, sexual or otherwise. This is with reference to children in Child Care Institutions and even other children who may not necessarily be in Child Care Institutions. Today, we are told by the learned ASG that the SOP is not ready but in the meanwhile, an interim advisory has been issued to all the State Governments / UTs giving the protocol to be followed. The learned Amicus says that she would like to look into the advisory and make her comments because this information has been given today in the Court.
(2.) Report of the Study by the NCPCR It is stated by the learned ASG that an interim report has been submitted by the NCPCR. This has been shared with 10 State Governments and sharing the report with 12 other States is in the process. It is not clear whether the report is being shared with the remaining State Governments and UTs. It is pointed out by learned counsel for the NCPCR that some of the States have not yet given the information with regard to number of child care institutions registered under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection) of Children Act, 2015. We expect the State Governments to ensure that registration is complete and information is passed with the NCPCR at least for the sake of children who are living in the States concerned. This should be done within two weeks.
(3.) Child Protection Policy On 08.10.2018, we were informed that the Child Protection Policy is on the anvil and it will take about two months or so. Today, it is stated that the first draft will be ready in December, 2018. We reiterate what we have recorded on 08.10.2018 to the effect that when the first draft is available, it should be circulated widely and also be given to the learned Amicus so that suggestions can be invited from all concerned.;