Justice JB Pardiwala Launches Handbook On Child Rights, Emphasises Need To Safeguard & Empower Girl Children

Justice JB Pardiwala, Judge of the Supreme Court and Member of the Juvenile Justice Committee, released the Handbook on Child Rights and the Law at the inaugural session of the National Annual Stakeholders Consultation on “Safeguarding the Girl Child: Towards a Safer and Enabling Environment for Her in India” held today (October 11).

Addressing the gathering, Justice Pardiwala said that protecting the girl child is not only a legal obligation but also a moral and social imperative. He emphasised that every girl has the right to live, learn and grow with equality and dignity, free from harm, discrimination and violence such as female foeticide and child marriage. “It involves providing equal access to education, healthcare and resources, promoting her value in families and society and empowering her to make informed choices and reach her full potential,” he said.

Introducing the Handbook on Child Rights and the Law, Justice Pardiwala explained that it has been prepared by the Centre for Research and Planning of the Supreme Court of India under the guidance of the Juvenile Justice Committee. The handbook provides a comprehensive overview of the child rights protection and juvenile justice framework in India.

He outlined that the publication is divided into seven parts. The initial chapters define the term 'child' and its legal implications, followed by discussions on national and international jurisprudential perspectives. Other sections examine key statutory frameworks and their overlaps, comparative practices from other jurisdictions, and mechanisms for implementation through administrative bodies, legal services authorities, social audits and judicial oversight. The final section addresses contemporary issues such as cyber crimes, mental health concerns and enforcement challenges.

Justice Pardiwala noted that the handbook is intended to serve as a valuable reference for all stakeholders engaged in protecting children's rights. “Together, these sections provide a comprehensive understanding of child rights and the challenges associated with securing them,” he said.

Commemorating the International Day of the Girl Child, Justice Pardiwala urged participants to go beyond law enforcement and nurture a culture of respect, equality and care. “Let us carry this spirit into our work so that the promise of safety and opportunity for every girl is not just an aspiration but a reality,” he remarked.

He concluded his address by expressing hope that the deliberations during the two-day consultation would be meaningful and would contribute to developing stronger and more practical pathways to ensure the protection and empowerment of the girl child.

Chief Justice of India BR Gavai and Justice BV Nagarathna also spoke at the event.

Click here to read the Handbook on Child Rights and Law

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