Amendments to Children's Act suggested

By A Staff Reporter

Kathmandu, Aug. 8: Kiran Kumar Sah, Chairperson of the Women and Social Committee, has stated that the current situation necessitates an amendment to the Act Relating to Children, 2018.  

Speaking at a discussion programme, Sah emphasized, “In a changing society, time-appropriate lawmaking is a necessity. 

In the programme organised by the Forum for Women, Law and Development (FWLD) with support from UNICEF on Wednesday, Sah noted that none of the Juvenile Correction Homes in Nepal have met the required standards. He added that children living in these homes are at risk, as they lack minimal access to adequate food, proper sleeping arrangements, and other basic physical facilities.

The First Amendment Bill on Children, which is set to be tabled in the House of Representatives after clause-wise discussions in the thematic committee, is said to incorporate several new and timely provisions that align with international treaties and agreements.

Sah emphasized that the bill is not driven by any vested interest but is time-sensitive and is focused on child welfare.

FWLD Executive Director, Advocate Sabin Shrestha, said the bill includes many new provisions and amendments could improve it.

Suggestions included the need to clearly define the terms 'orphan children' and 'found children,' ensure non-discrimination in determining a child’s surname from either the father or the mother, clarify the legal age for engaging in hazardous work, and uphold the child’s right to privacy, he said. 

Likewise, Shriram Adhikari from the Child Rights Council urged lawmakers to consider Sections 43 and 24 of the Act.

UNICEF representative Ram Prasad Gautam recommended replacing “child psychologist” with “child counselor” in Section 62. 

Lawmakers participating in the event said that the suggestions made it easier to consider further amendments to the bill.