Child Protection Policy
Maa Puspa Manav Vikash Foundation (Section 8 Company)
Maa Puspa Manav Vikash Foundation is committed to ensuring the safety, dignity, and well-being of every child we work with. This Child Protection Policy outlines our principles, responsibilities, and procedures to prevent abuse, respond effectively to concerns, and create a secure environment across all programs.
1. Our Commitment
We uphold every child’s right to:
- Safety and protection
- Education and development
- Freedom from abuse, exploitation, and neglect
- Being treated with dignity and respect
This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, donors, visitors, partners, and vendors associated with the Foundation.
2. Legal Framework
This policy aligns with:
- UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC)
- Juvenile Justice (Care & Protection) Act, 2015
- POCSO Act, 2012
- Indian Penal Code (IPC)
- Information Technology Act, 2000
All child-related operations must comply with relevant laws and amendments.
3. Definition of a Child
A child is any individual below 18 years of age, as per Indian law.
4. Zero Tolerance for Abuse
We enforce strict zero tolerance for:
- Physical abuse
- Emotional/psychological abuse
- Sexual abuse or exploitation
- Neglect or abandonment
- Child labor or trafficking
- Online harassment or misuse of child images
Any violation will result in disciplinary and legal action.
5. Code of Conduct
All staff, volunteers, and visitors must follow:
Do’s
- Treat children with respect and dignity
- Maintain appropriate professional boundaries
- Take informed consent before photos/videos
- Report any concerns immediately
- Ensure a safe, supportive environment
Don’ts
- Do not use abusive language
- Do not touch a child inappropriately
- Do not punish, shame, or humiliate a child
- Do not share a child’s identity online
- Do not meet a child alone in a closed or isolated area
6. Safe Photography & Media Use
- No child’s image may be used without written consent from guardian/parent.
- Faces may be blurred if necessary.
- Photos must represent dignity, not vulnerability.
- No location details or sensitive information should be shared publicly.
7. Recruitment & Training
Staff & Volunteers
- All staff working with children undergo background verification.
- Mandatory orientation on child protection principles.
- Continuous monitoring during field activities.
8. Reporting Child Abuse
Any suspicion, complaint, or disclosure of child abuse must be reported immediately.
Reporting Channels
- Internal: Child Protection Officer / Foundation Head
- External (as required by law):
- Police
- Childline (1098)
- Child Welfare Committee (CWC)
Confidentiality will be maintained, and retaliation is strictly prohibited.
9. Response & Action
When abuse is reported:
- Ensure the child’s immediate safety
- Document details without leading questions
- Inform designated authorities
- Provide emotional support and counseling
- Take disciplinary/legal action against the offender
- Submit mandatory reports as per POCSO/JJ Act
10. Online Safety
To protect children in digital programs:
- No unauthorized sharing of child information
- Safe digital learning spaces
- Monitoring of online interactions
- Prohibition of private chats with children
11. Partner & Vendor Compliance
Any organization, vendor, school, or partner working with Maa Puspa Manav Vikash Foundation must:
- Follow this policy
- Sign the Child Safeguarding Declaration
- Agree to monitoring and audits
12. Review & Updates
This policy will be reviewed annually or as required by law.
Updated versions will be shared internally and uploaded publicly.
13. Contact for Child Protection Concerns
If you wish to report a violation or express a concern:
📧 support@puspa.org
📞 8287814009
📍 Maa Puspa Manav Vikash Foundation
