Guwahati, July 31: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu today advocated for robust inter-state cooperation among the Northeastern states to tackle escalating threats against children. Speaking at the inauguration of the first-ever North East State Commissions for Protection of Child Rights (SCPCR) Convention 2026 in Tawang, Khandu underscored the urgent need for a unified approach to safeguard the region's youth.
The Chief Minister highlighted a range of serious challenges, including child trafficking, the growing menace of online exploitation, substance abuse, child marriage, and various cross-border criminal activities. He emphasized that the unique geographical and social landscapes of the Northeast necessitate a coordinated strategy, transcending individual state boundaries, to effectively protect children from these pervasive dangers.
Khandu's call for a collective regional effort aims to create a stronger protective framework, ensuring the safety and well-being of every child across the eight states. The convention itself serves as a crucial platform for dialogue and the formulation of integrated policies, recognizing that many child rights violations often span multiple jurisdictions, demanding a synchronized response from law enforcement and child protection agencies.
The inaugural convention marks a significant step towards fostering greater collaboration among the SCPCRs of the region, pooling resources and expertise to address complex issues that threaten the future generation of the Northeast.