Punjab's New Initiative: Breaking Barriers for Special Needs Children

The Punjab government has announced the empanelment of sign language interpreters, translators, and special educators under the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015. This move, shared by Minister for Social Security, Women and Child Development Baljit Kaur, is a significant step towards empowering children with special needs by removing communication hurdles in various environments.

This initiative is also aligned with the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012, aiming to address communication gaps and ensure that children have better access to justice and their rights. It underscores the government's commitment to fostering an inclusive society.

The trained professionals will not only assist during court proceedings to promote fairness and transparency but also provide continued support where necessary. They will be deployed across districts and compensated according to legal provisions.

(With inputs from agencies.)