J&K: CPA bans sharing photos, CCTV footage in Shopian child suicide attempt cases

Srinagar: The District Child Protection Authority (CPA) in J&K’s Shopian has prohibited the circulation of photographs, CCTV footage and other identifying information in cases involving child suicide attempts.

The directive, issued by the District Child Protection Officer (DCPO) under Mission Vatsalya, follows a recent case of attempted suicide by a child that came to the notice of the District Child Protection Unit.

Officials, institutions, media organisations and members of the public have been directed to refrain from uploading, publishing or disclosing photographs, videos, screenshots or any material that could reveal the identity of children involved in suicide or attempted‑suicide incidents.

The order specifically bars disclosure of details such as the child’s name, address, school, parents’ particulars, contact information and location, except where permitted by law or authorised by a competent authority.

It further prohibits sharing case records, inquiry documents, medical information, statements and other confidential material on social media platforms or public communication channels, including WhatsApp, Telegram, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

The DCPO has separately directed that CCTV footage relating to such incidents be treated as confidential. Where required for investigation or judicial proceedings, the footage is to be preserved and supplied only to the competent investigating authority, court or other legally authorised body.

The order cites Section 74 of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, which protects the identity of children in conflict with law, children in need of care and protection, and child victims or witnesses in inquiries, investigations or judicial proceedings.

Contravention of this provision is punishable under Section 74(3), with imprisonment of up to six months, or a fine of up to Rs 2 lakh, or both.

The District Child Protection Office has also asked media persons, news agencies and digital platforms to follow applicable law and Press Council of India norms while reporting on child suicide attempts. It has cautioned against sensationalised reporting, publication of photographs or videos, disclosure of unnecessary details and repeated or prominent coverage.

At the same time, the order clarifies that lawful reporting or investigation protected by law is not restricted. Still, it reiterates that the identity and identifying particulars of a child must not be disclosed contrary to the Juvenile Justice Act.

Child protection authorities across the country have stressed the importance of safeguarding the identity of children through non‑disclosure of name, parentage, school or residence, and enforcement of these provisions has recently been tightened.

IANS