The WCD Minister emphasizes capacity building in the field of combating cyberbullying and internet crimes involving minors

Women and Child Development Minister Annapurna Devi on Saturday stressed the importance of capacity building and tackling issues such as cyberbullying, cyber fraud and involvement of minors in cybercrimes.

During the 9th Annual National Stakeholder Consultation on ‘Protecting the Rights of Children with Disabilities’, the Minister highlighted the Government’s growing commitment to protect children, especially Children in Need of Care and Protection (CNCP) and Children in Conflict with Law (CiCL), who have various fit.

She said the child protection budget had been increased significantly. “The budget allocation for child protection, which was around Rs 60 crore in 2009-10, has been increased to around Rs 1,500 crore for 2024-25,” she said.

Referring to the vulnerability to which disabled children are exposed, the Minister stated that these children often become easy targets for perpetrators of social crimes.

She stressed the importance of capacity building and tackling issues such as cyberbullying, online fraud and involvement of minors in cybercrime.

“Children, especially those with disabilities, are the most vulnerable and it is our collective responsibility as a society and government to ensure they are protected,” she said.

She further explained that many children are not aware that they are victims of crimes such as domestic violence, cybercrime and bullying, highlighting the need to pay special attention to their protection. The Minister also spoke about the steps taken by the Government, including legislative updates and regulations, which have proven crucial in efforts to protect children.

She highlighted the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015 and the strengthening of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses (POCSO) Act.

“We also worked to prevent human trafficking. When the law is broken, the role of the judiciary becomes important,” said the minister, calling on the judiciary to remain sensitive to issues related to children.

She praised the judges present at the event, appreciating their efforts to strengthen the justice system and build public trust.

Referring to the recent significant ruling on child pornography, the Minister called for a renewed focus on children’s safety and development.

“The scope of child protection is wide. “It’s not just about their safety, but also about protecting their rights,” she said.

Additionally, during Poshan Maah, she highlighted last year’s efforts to detect early disabilities among children, calling on states to empower child welfare committees.

UNICEF India Representative Cynthia McCaffrey, who also spoke at the event, praised India’s progress in supporting children with disabilities.

She noted that globally, one in three children in institutional care has a disability, making them more vulnerable to family separation.

“Disabled children are, first and foremost, children. Regardless of history, every child has the full right to development,” she said.