The Mumbai Police have launched an innovative initiative to create more empathetic and supportive environments for children who come into contact with the legal system. Dubbed the "Matunga Model," this program involves establishing dedicated "child-friendly corners" within police stations, offering a safe and comforting space for children of suspects and victims.
The initiative was recently implemented across seven police stations in Zone 4, including those in Matunga, Sion, Antop Hill, Rafi Ahmed Kidwai Marg, Kalachowkie, Bhoiwada, and Wadala Truck Terminal. These designated spaces feature a separate entry and are designed to be welcoming and non-intimidating, a stark contrast to the often-grim atmosphere of a typical police station. The "child-friendly corners" are equipped with a range of amenities to keep children occupied and at ease, including toys, art supplies, books, and child-friendly furniture. The goal is to provide a space where children can feel safe and distracted while their parents or caregivers are being questioned or giving testimonies.
A key component of the Matunga Model is the involvement of specially trained women police officers. These officers are responsible for managing the child-friendly corners and interacting with the children in a respectful and sensitive manner. This specialized training ensures that the children's emotional and psychological needs are met during what can be a stressful and potentially traumatic experience.
The Matunga Model is intended to address a significant gap in the way legal systems interact with minors. Children who find themselves in police stations are often in vulnerable circumstances, whether as victims of abuse, witnesses to crimes, or children of accused individuals. Traditional police environments can be intimidating and even traumatizing for children, potentially hindering their ability to communicate and cooperate with law enforcement. By providing a safe and supportive space, the Matunga Model aims to reduce the fear and anxiety associated with police stations, making it easier for children to engage with the legal process.
The Mumbai Police have plans to expand the Matunga Model to all 85 police stations throughout the city. This widespread implementation would ensure that all children who come into contact with the police in Mumbai have access to a child-friendly environment. In addition, the police are seeking collaborations with child psychologists, legal aid experts, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to provide comprehensive support to children within the justice system. These partnerships would enable the police to address the diverse needs of children, including psychological counseling, legal assistance, and other forms of support.
Child rights advocates and NGOs have lauded the Matunga Model as a positive step towards creating a more humane and child-sensitive legal system. By prioritizing the well-being of children and ensuring that their interactions with law enforcement are conducted in a supportive and respectful manner, the Mumbai Police are setting a new standard for child-friendly policing in India. This initiative aligns closely with the Juvenile Justice Act and reinforces the commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of children in the country. Other states like Kerala and Odisha have also implemented similar initiatives. Kerala will have approximately 142 child-friendly police stations. Odisha has set up 34 Child-Friendly Police Stations (CFPS) in different districts.
