Ensure security of children : MCPCR to Govt
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, September 22 2026: The right to life is an inherent right of every child, and the State must take up appropriate measures to protect children from violence, said the Manipur Commission for Protection of Child Rights (MCPR) as it called for an impartial and time-bound investigation into the killing of a 17-year-old student in Tamenglong district yesterday.

The minor, 17, identified as NK Wiphenbou was walking towards Tamei when he was gunned down by suspected Kuki militants yesterday.

Wiphenbou was the son of NK Maihinlakbou of Upper Takou (Nkou) Naga village.

Terming attacks on minors and students unacceptable, the MCPCR, in a statement, said that the district administration concerned and the police authorities should submit an Action Taken Report (ATR) to the Commission within 15 days, covering the investigation and prosecution, ex-gratia and relief provided to the family, and concrete measures taken to strengthen the safety and protection of minors and students in vulnerable areas.

"The Commission is deeply concerned that minors and young students are repeatedly becoming victims of violence and attacks.

Such incidents are wholly unacceptable and constitute a serious violation of the rights, safety and dignity of every child," said the MCPCR .

The right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution of India applies equally and unequivocally to every child.

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) recognises a child's inherent right to life, survival and development and requires States to protect children from violence, it said.

Children affected by conflict and civil unrest are entitled to special care and protection under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, and other applicable laws, it added.

Asking the Government and law-enforcement agencies to take immediate and concrete measures to ensure the safety of minors and students in vulnerable and conflict-affected areas, the commission said adequate security must be provided along vulnerable routes used by students, around educational institutions and in villages and other locations where children are at risk.

Safe passage for students travelling to and from educational institutions must be ensured, and preventive security measures must be reviewed and strengthened without delay, it added.

The commission further asked the authorities concerned to establish effective coordination between the district administration, police, educational institutions and local authorities to identify and respond promptly to threats affecting children.

"No child should be required to travel through an unsafe area without appropriate protection or security arrangements," it said.

Calling for a prompt, impartial and time-bound investigation, identification and apprehension of those responsible, and prosecution in accordance with law, the MCPCR also asked competent authorities to provide adequate ex-gratia assistance and all admissible relief to the bereaved family in accordance with applicable Government norms.

The MCPCR also appealed to all armed groups and all parties involved in communal clashes, conflict or unrest to immediately cease all acts of violence against minors, students and women.

"Children must never be targeted or made victims of communal or armed conflict, irrespective of their community, identity or location" .

Protection of children must remain a non-negotiable obligation even during the most difficult circumstances of conflict and unrest, said the commission.

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