A delegation from the Manipur Commission for Protection of Child Rights (MCPCR) reportedly met Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla at Raj Bhawan on Tuesday, urging immediate intervention on several pressing issues concerning child welfare in the state.
According to sources, the MCPCR delegation emphasized the need for early enactment of the Manipur State Policy for Children, 2025. They were said to have appealed to the Governor to approve and enact the policy through the Governor in Council, with the objective of making Manipur the first state in the Northeast to implement a comprehensive children’s policy. The delegation believed that such a policy would help address numerous challenges faced by children in the state, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds and those affected by the ongoing violence.
The team also drew the Governor’s attention to the urgent need for dedicated Pediatric or Child COVID Care Centres, citing the recent resurgence of COVID-19 cases. They reportedly highlighted the vulnerability of children, especially those living in overcrowded relief camps where maintaining social distancing remains a major challenge. The delegation was said to have urged the state administration to improve the infrastructure and expand the accommodation capacities of these camps in both valley and hill districts.
Expressing deep concern over the prolonged unrest in Manipur, the MCPCR team reportedly pointed out the severe psychological and social toll on children from both the Meitei and Kuki communities. They urged the Governor to work towards a comprehensive and peaceful resolution to the ongoing crisis to safeguard the future of all children in the state.
The delegation was led by MCPCR Chairperson Keisam Pradipkumar, and included Member Anita Chabungbam and Programme Officer Sumel Yumnam.