Lahore:
Law defenders have called for immediate enforcement of child protection policy approved by the Punjab Cabinet.
The CEO of search for justice, iftikhar Mubarak, emphasized the need for dedicated funding to ensure that the policy does not remain a symbolic gesture. “It is important that the upcoming provincial budget includes a clear financial obligation to child protection and welfare,” he said, talking for a comprehensive plan of action that clearly defines the responsibility for all relevant departments.
Children’s Advocacy Network Pakistan Collector Rasheeda Qureshi called for the integration of child protection measures in the annual development and operational budgets for all public sector departments. She also recommended the introduction of the budgeting of children’s protection budgeting to ensure a fair resource distribution and strengthen the mechanisms of responsibility.
Child Rights Movement Punjab Coordinator Mudassar Ahmad emphasized the urgent nature of rapid implementation. He proposed the establishment of the Child Protection Committee at District and Tehsil levels to locate and operationalize the policy. “The role of the Bureau has now been expanded – it must strengthen interdeportal coordination to move forward,” he added.
The representatives of civil society called on the Punjab government not to stop political approval.
