DK Child Protection Unit to conduct campaign to raise awareness of child trafficking

The District Child Protection Unit has issued a warning that trafficking or purchasing children is a punishable offense under the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015. Those found guilty of selling or buying children can face up to five years in prison and a fine of Rs 1 lakh under Sections 80 and 81 of the Act.

If hospitals are found involved in such crimes, the law prescribes they can be punished with a prison sentence ranging from 3 to 7 years.

The Dakshina Kannada Child Protection Unit is conducting a campaign to raise awareness of child trafficking among the public. Additionally, to promote legal adoptions, the district is observing Adoption Awareness Month throughout November.

The authorities encourage the public to report any information about abandoned, orphaned, or surrendered children to the District Child Protection Office at 0824-2440004 or the child helplines at 1098 or 112.