CNLU organises orientation programme on role of police in Gram Kachahri

Patna: The panchayati raj chair professor at Chanakya National Law University (CNLU) organised an orientation programme on “Role of police in Gram Kachahri with special reference to the POCSO Act and the Juvenile Justice Act” here on Sunday. Altogether 50 deputy superintendents of police (DSPs) and sub-divisional police officers (SDPOs) from across the state attended the programme conducted in collaboration with UNICEF.Speaking as the chief guest on the occasion, DIG (CID) Jayant Kant urged the participants to effectively implement the provisions of the Bihar Gram Kachahari Act, the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, and the Juvenile Justice Act for the welfare of the society.CNLU vice-chancellor Faizan Mustafa, in his presidential address, called upon the participants to commit themselves to the “rule of Law” and cautioned them against the usual practice of “ruling by law.”

He said that the rule of law is an article of faith in a constitutional democracy. He also highlighted the salient features of Gram Kachahari, stating that their judges are elected representatives and that the principle of reservation is duly implemented in their appointment.Former district and sessions judge and former state information commissioner of Bihar, Om Prakash, elaborated on the legal and procedural aspects of Gram Kachahari in detail and the problems faced in implementation of POCSO Act and Juvenile Justice Act.

UNICEF’s state consultant Ajay Kumar also shared his expertise and practical insights with the participants on faithful implementation of the provisions of both the Acts.At the outset, CNLU registrar-cum-chair professor S P Singh in his welcome address, traced the evolution of Gram Kachahri and highlighted its pivotal role in resolving disputes at the grassroots level.