TimesView A developmental approach is the best way to wean away juvenile offenders from crime. It’s a scientific fact that they are “immature” and may have strayed due to environmental factors or peer pressure. After identifying such high-risk vulnerable groups, the focus of action would have to revolve around bringing about a turnaround through various programmes and to make the juveniles aware of what’s right and wrong. The reformatory trajectory for juveniles who are into drugs may be more tough, however, change can be brought about through sustained efforts and providing the right direction. If the project in-charges succeed in getting them to redefining their life goals, they will begin working towards change. CHANDIGARH: Police have identified 3,000 children who have indulged in petty crime or drug abuse and are at high risk of getting involved in criminal activities in a first of its kind initiative aimed at improving their lives.The police department with the help of Delhi-based NGO Society for Promotion of Youth and Masses surveyed 22,000 children out of which 3,000 from six peripheral areas were in high-risk category. They are in the 8-16 years age group.“We also took the help of the health and education departments. Shopkeepers and local leaders of the area too pitched in,” Nilambari Jagadale, senior superintendent of police (SSP), said.The survey was initiated in November. In December, the NGO started a programme to help the children channelise their energies to turn them into better human beings as a pilot project. Around 242 children out of 1,000 from the economically weaker section have been enrolled so far. Anganwadi centres have been taken after school hours for the exercise.Parents were persuaded to make their children join the programme. “We look forward to work with 1,000 children and change their lives. These children are from extremely poor background and will not find any guidance at home. After they get free from school, they have nothing to do and are vulnerable to drug abuse and crime. The programme has been scheduled right after school time,” said Jagdale. It is a two-to-threehour-long programme and is activity-based.“Eight modules have been designed for the programme and includes everything that is not taught to children, like living a quality life, teaching about various hobbies to develop their interest, developing communication skills, public speaking and role plays,” she said. There are also games like snakes and ladders and ludo.In the module, they are also taught about how to handle real life situations in a lawful manner. Also, they are taught about how to act when caught up in certain tricky/criminal situations.Good touch, bad touch will also be taught along with teaching lawful responses and keeping safe in certain situations.Through this initiative, police department looks forward to building a reputation with the youth and is hopeful that they will help in contribute in curbing crime and nabbing criminals when they grow up.“These are times when community policing is very important. Through this initiative not only children but society and police will also benefit as a whole. Children will get real picture of the police instead of building an image through television. They can also help the police in future by being responsible citizens,” Jagadale said.

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