On August 5, 2024, the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) held a one-day national review and consultation on grievance redressal mechanisms under Section 32 of the RTE Act, 2009. The event took place at Hall No. 5, Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, with the aim of evaluating and enhancing the grievance redressal systems in States and Union Territories.
Representatives from State Commissions for Protection of Child Rights (SCPCRs), State Education Departments, and District Education Officers from 32 States and UTs participated in the consultation. The event opened with an address by NCPCR Chairperson, Shri Priyank Kanoongo, who emphasized the importance of a robust mechanism to address violations of children’s right to education. He advocated for a ‘Children’s Charter’ to ensure timely resolution of complaints and stressed the need for digital technology to aid the grievance redressal process.
Kanoongo highlighted the significance of the 73rd Amendment Act and the responsibilities outlined in the 11th and 12th Schedules of the Constitution and Sections 6 and 9 of the RTE Act, which assign the Panchayat and local authorities the duty of ensuring children’s education. He called for the creation of School Development Plans based on children’s needs and the nature of complaints received, and urged SCPCRs and Education Departments to conduct regular inspections to identify and address issues faced by children.
The consultation included presentations from State Commissions and State Education Departments on their existing grievance redressal mechanisms. An open house discussion followed, allowing participants to share their views and suggestions.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Ms. Rupali Banerjee Singh, Member Secretary of NCPCR, who acknowledged the participants’ contributions and appealed for their continued cooperation.
