Mysuru: Principal District and Sessions Judge Usha Rani, who also serves as the Chairman of District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Mysuru, inaugurated a programme to mark National Girl Child Day at Zilla Panchayat (ZP) auditorium recently.

The event was organised by the District Administration, in association with ZP, DLSA, Department of Women and Child Development and District Child Protection Unit, to promote awareness about the rights, education, health and safety of girls in India.

Speaking at the event, Judge Usha Rani emphasised that education plays a crucial role in preventing atrocities against girls. “Girls are often deprived of education, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation in workplaces where they are treated as slaves. Ensuring proper education is essential for their protection,” she stated.

She highlighted that incidents related to child marriage, the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act, the POCSO Act, and human trafficking indicate that women and girls continue to face various forms of abuse. Hence, she called for strict implementation of government initiatives like ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ to safeguard their rights.

“The Supreme Court has issued several guidelines to prevent atrocities against women and girls. It is the responsibility of Deputy Commissioners and Police officials to ensure these laws are effectively enforced,” she added.

B.G. Dinesh, Senior Civil Judge and Member-Secretary of DLSA, urged schools and teachers to educate girl students about their rights and safety. The event was attended by Additional SP L. Nagesh, DCP M. Muthuraj, ZP Planning Officer Prabhuswamy, Deputy Secretary Savitha and other officials.