Author:
Risana MY
Assistant Professor, Social Work Department, KMO Arts and Science College, Koduvally
Keywords: Child Protection, DCPU, Kozhikode, Child Abuse, Rehabilitation, Awareness Strategies, Fundamental Rights.
In socially, culturally, and educationally advanced societies, child safety remains a paramount ethical priority. Despite development, children remain vulnerable to diverse forms of abuse, negligence, and marginalization. Grounded in the fundamental rights of the child, the government has established specialized agencies and legislative frameworks to ensure welfare and protection. These measures serve as critical tools for child liberation from abusive environments. Society cannot exist or progress without healthy future generations, and children represent the most valuable foundation of any society. This article examines the specific interventions of the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU) in Kozhikode regarding child rescue and rehabilitation. The research adopts a qualitative descriptive research design. Primary data were collected through semi-structured interviews with five officials working in the District Child Protection Unit, including the District Child Protection Officer, social workers, Child Helpline staff, and the ORC psychologist. Secondary data were obtained through a review of academic literature, government reports, and policy documents related to child protection. The collected data were analysed using thematic analysis to identify major patterns related to causes of child vulnerability, institutional responses, and community challenges. The findings reveal that lack of public awareness regarding child rights, dysfunctional family environments, and substance abuse within families are major factors contributing to child vulnerability. The study also highlights, the crucial role of DCPU in community education, rescue operations, rehabilitation processes, and psychological intervention. This research contributes to the broader discourse on institutional child protection and proactive community engagement.
Risana MY is an Assistant Professor of Social Work with a strong academic foundation and extensive field experience in child protection, mental health, and community development. She holds a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Calicut. Her professional journey includes roles with the District Child Protection Unit and academic internships with reputed institutions. A published author and active conference presenter, her interests span psychosocial intervention, child rights, and social entrepreneurship, with a deep commitment to social justice and sustainable development.