Gujarat Unveils Child Protection Policy 2026

GANDHINAGAR :  Gujarat has drawn a tougher line against violence, abuse and exploitation of children, with the state government announcing the Gujarat State Child Protection Policy-2026, bringing the digital world, healthcare facilities, workplaces and public spaces within its child-safety framework.

The policy, which came into effect from the date of its publication in the Gazette, adopts a zero-tolerance approach towards violence, exploitation, abuse, neglect and discrimination against children. It seeks to shift child protection from a post-incident response to a system focused on prevention, early identification, immediate assistance, rehabilitation and reintegration.

“The objective is to create a safe, equal and dignified environment where every child can grow to their full potential, free from violence, exploitation, abuse, neglect and discrimination,” the state government said.

One of the key features is the extension of child protection to the online world, with measures aimed at addressing risks arising from the internet, social media and digital technologies.

The policy also mandates equal protection irrespective of religion, caste, gender, disability, socio-economic status, geographical location or other background. Special attention will be given to vulnerable children, including those who are orphaned, homeless, migrant, trafficked, living in institutional care, affected by disasters or chronic illnesses, and children belonging to disadvantaged communities.

Child protection will no longer be viewed as the responsibility of a single department. Government agencies, local bodies, NGOs, civil society organisations, industries, corporate houses, media organisations, religious institutions and other entities working with children will be covered under the framework.

Institutions employing teachers, doctors, counsellors and other professionals dealing directly with children will have to follow prescribed safety protocols. Training on child rights and laws such as POCSO and the Juvenile Justice Act, along with background and police verification of employees, contractual workers and volunteers, will also be strengthened.

Suspected cases involving abuse, sexual exploitation, child marriage, child labour, trafficking, online abuse, abandonment or neglect must be reported to CHILD HELPLINE 1098/112, police authorities or the Child Welfare Committee, with confidentiality of the complainant protected.

The policy also provides for child-friendly healthcare, prohibiting hospitals and healthcare workers from refusing treatment or discriminating against children on specified grounds.

Institutions with 50 or more employees will have to provide crèche or mobile crèche facilities, while child-friendly spaces and infant-care facilities will be promoted at public places.

Every government department will prepare an annual implementation plan. The Gujarat State Child Protection Society will oversee implementation, while the Chief Secretary will conduct an annual review. The policy will also undergo a broader review every three years, or earlier if required.