Srinagar, August 31, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The District Child Protection Authority in Jammu and Kashmir’s Shopian has prohibited the circulation of photographs, CCTV footage and other identifying information in cases involving children who attempt suicide.
The directive, issued by the District Child Protection Officer (DCPO) under Mission Vatsalya, follows a recent case involving a child’s suicide attempt that came to the notice of the District Child Protection Unit.
Under the order, officials, institutions, media organisations and members of the public have been directed not to upload, publish or disclose photographs, videos, screenshots or other material that could reveal the identity of a child involved in a suicide or attempted-suicide incident.
The prohibition covers details including the child’s name, address, school, parents’ particulars, contact information and location, unless disclosure is permitted by law or authorised by a competent authority.
The order also bars the sharing of case records, inquiry documents, medical information, statements and other confidential material through social media and public communication platforms such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
CCTV footage connected with such incidents has also been classified as confidential. Where required for an investigation or judicial proceedings, such footage must be preserved and provided only to the competent investigating authority, court or another legally authorised body.
The directive cites Section 74 of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, which safeguards the identity of children in conflict with law, children in need of care and protection, and child victims or witnesses during inquiries, investigations and judicial proceedings.
Under Section 74(3), violation of the provision can attract imprisonment of up to six months, a fine of up to Rs 2 lakh, or both.
The District Child Protection Office has also asked media organisations, journalists and digital platforms to comply with applicable laws and Press Council of India norms while reporting on child suicide attempts.
It cautioned against sensationalised coverage, publication of photographs or videos, disclosure of unnecessary identifying details and repeated or prominent reporting of such incidents.
The order clarified that lawful reporting or investigation protected under applicable law is not prohibited, while reiterating that the identity and identifying particulars of children must not be disclosed in violation of the Juvenile Justice Act.
FOLLOW NOW
