Children urge govt to end violence against them

Around 2000 children at a gathering in the city yesterday called on the government to end violence against them.
The gathering was part of a series of events that took place around the world to mark the Save the Children's 'Day of Action' to end violence against children, said a press release of Save the Children UK.
The participating children set up different stalls at the venue of the gathering at Azad Muslim playground in Lalbagh where birth registration service was offered by an NGO.
The participating children also drew pictures and displayed those in their stalls. Besides, child-related publications were also on display there.
A video documentary was shown and a lively debate competition on parental responsibility was also held.
This was followed by a cultural programme performed by the working children.
Shanta, a 12-year-old girl who works in a factory, said it was a wonderful day for her.
“I enjoyed a lot by playing and singing with friends, and I want to attend this type of event often,” she added.
The programme was also attended by Geeti Ara Safia Chowdhury, former adviser to the Caretaker Government as chief guest, and Masuda Binte Kadir, joint secretary to social welfare ministry, as special guest.
Inaugurating the event, Geeti Ara said child protection should be ensured right from the family level.
Masuda said the government is in the process of amending the Children Act 1974 which till date has been the principal law on child protection.