PSCPCR reaffirms commitment to child protection in flood-affected areas of Punjab

Ludhiana, September 02, 2025: Gunjeet Ruchi Bawa, Vice-Chairperson, Punjab State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (PSCPCR), in close coordination with the Government of Punjab and Dr. Baljit Kaur, Cabinet Minister, Department of Social Security, Women and Child Development, monitored the Child Care Institute (CCI), Shimlapuri, Ludhiana, during the ongoing flood situation in Punjab.
The visit, led by Gunjeet Ruchi Bawa, was part of the Commission’s ongoing monitoring of the safety and welfare of children in institutional care.
To control and mitigate the impact of flooding at the institute, the Commission reviewed on-ground arrangements with special emphasis on:
• Plumbing works to prevent water stagnation.
• Sandbags placed for flood protection and water diversion.
• Awareness programs on water-borne diseases to safeguard children’s health.
• Mental health and counselling support provided by professionals.
• Hobby classes and indoor activities to keep children positively engaged until the water is fully drained.
• Regular medical check-ups to detect and prevent flood-related illnesses.
The Commission emphasized that Himanshu Jain, Deputy Commissioner, Ludhiana, is personally monitoring the situation. It further confirmed that the Commission is in close coordination with him and the district administration to ensure timely action and effective child protection measures.
The inspection underlined the importance of ensuring safe shelter, healthcare, psychosocial support, and preventive measures to protect children from potential risks during and after the floods.
The review was attended by Rashmi Saini, District Child Protection Officer; Harman Singh, Superintendent, CCI Shimlapuri; Ajay; Nadeem; Vikram; and Mandeep Singh.
Reaffirming its commitment, the Punjab State Commission for Protection of Child Rights stated that it will continue to work in close coordination with the Deputy Commissioner, district administration, line departments, civil society organizations, and community stakeholders to safeguard and promote the rights of children, particularly in flood-affected areas of Punjab.