A significant blow to child welfare in Jharkhand has occurred with the operational collapse of the central government’s Mission Vatsalya program, drawing severe criticism from the BJP. This key initiative is mandated to protect children, promote their well-being, and uphold their rights, fostering a secure and nurturing environment for their growth and development in line with SDGs. The scheme is governed by the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015, and the POCSO Act, 2012. Tragically, Mission Vatsalya has been defunct in the state for the last twelve months.
BJP representatives have strongly criticized the state government’s handling of the mission’s staff, likening their situation to indentured servitude. Those responsible for ensuring children receive justice and protection are reportedly themselves struggling to secure their basic financial needs. For a continuous period of 12 months, no salaries have been paid to CWC Chairpersons and members, JJB members, computer operators, social workers, outreach workers, accountants, and shelter home personnel across Jharkhand. This non-payment has led to widespread financial distress, with many employees facing substantial debt. The impact is so severe that some cannot afford necessary medical treatment. An accountant, Santosh Kashyap, was reportedly hospitalized due to the extreme mental stress caused by this ongoing financial neglect.
The BJP emphasized that the central government adheres to its funding schedule for Mission Vatsalya. However, the state government’s commitment to its role has faltered. They sarcastically remarked that the state administration prioritizes ‘publicity and branding’ on child rights over the financial well-being of its dedicated staff. The BJP has called for immediate action to clear all outstanding salary payments for officials and employees working within the child rights framework, urging the government to address the critical needs of its workforce rather than focusing solely on public relations.