In a significant initiative towards ensuring a safe and secure childhood, protecting children’s rights, and preventing child abuse, the Departments of Law and Social Work at MATS University, Raipur, actively participated in the nationwide ‘Bachpan Bachao Abhiyan’ (Save Childhood Campaign). Organised in collaboration with the District Legal Services Authorities (DLSA), Raipur and Durg, the campaign aimed to promote awareness among school students regarding child protection, legal safeguards, and their fundamental rights.
As part of this initiative, the university team visited GD Goenka International School, Sejbahar; Government Higher Secondary School, Marra, Tehsil Patan, District Durg; and Swami Atmanand English Medium School, engaging with students from Classes VI to XII through structured awareness and sensitisation programmes.
The sessions focused on the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, child rights, safe and unsafe touch, personal safety, and the prevention of child abuse. These critical issues were explained through simple language, practical examples, and interactive discussions to ensure that students could understand their rights and recognise situations that may threaten their safety. Students were also encouraged to speak up against inappropriate behaviour, approach trusted adults, report incidents without fear, and seek appropriate legal assistance whenever required.
The campaign witnessed the active and valuable participation of judicial officers from Raipur and Durg, DLSA representatives, faculty members, and university students, reflecting a collaborative commitment towards child protection and legal awareness.
The initiative was undertaken with the valuable guidance, encouragement, and institutional support of the Hon’ble Chancellor, Shri Gajraj Pagaria; Director General, Shri Priyesh Pagaria; Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, Prof. (Dr.) K. P. Yadav; Hon’ble Registrar, Shri Gokulananda Panda; and the Deputy Registrar. Their continued encouragement strengthened the university’s commitment to social responsibility, community engagement, and legal awareness.
The programme was conducted under the guidance and leadership of Dr. Payal Chatterjee, Head, Department of Law, and Dr. Archana R. Tupat, Head, Department of Social Work. The significant contributions of Dr. I. Nagamani Deshlahare, Mr. Om Prakash Kanojia, and Dr. Sneha Kumari were instrumental in facilitating the successful execution of the campaign.
The university expressed its sincere gratitude to the management of MATS University, the District Legal Services Authorities (DLSA), judicial officers, school principals, teachers, and Paralegal Volunteers (PLVs) for their valuable cooperation and support.
Through this initiative, MATS University reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a society that respects children’s rights, ensures their protection, and provides them with a safe and dignified environment.