PUNJAB FIRST TO EMPANEL SIGN LANGUAGE EXPERTS

Current Context : Punjab becomes the first Indian state to formally empanel sign language interpreters and special educators under the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015 and POCSO Act, 2012, for better access to justice for children with communication disabilities.

ABOUT THE INITIATIVE

• Purpose: To ensure that children with hearing or speech impairments are not denied justice due to communication barriers

FEATURES

• Legal Empowerment: Interpreters and educators will assist during court proceedings involving juvenile cases and POCSO-related cases
• District-Wise Deployment:
  • Experts to be posted in all districts across Punjab
  • Timely and consistent support to be made available
• Compensation and Legal Backing: Remuneration under provisions of Juvenile Justice Act and POCSO Act

SIGNIFICANCE

• Promotes inclusive legal access
• Ensures fair and impartial hearings for vulnerable children
• Sets a national example in creating barrier-free justice systems