Nabarangpur,Aug 31 [UDN}:: A legal awareness workshop was organised by the Shaktishree Empowerment Cell of Nabarangpur Women’s Degree College under the direction of the Higher Education Department.
The workshop was held under the chairpersonship of College Principal Ms. Maleswari Sahu, with a large number of students, the Shaktishree Cell coordinator, members, and class representatives in attendance.
Senior advocate of the Nabarangpur District Court Mr. Samaresh Gantayat, who attended as the chief guest, explained various laws, provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and other legal provisions to the students in a simple and accessible manner. He particularly elaborated on the various legal provisions contained in Sections 63 to 99 and their practical application.
Senior District Court advocate Mr. Debiprasad Singh, as the guest of honour, sensitised the students about the POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) Act. He spoke about the importance, objectives and functioning of the Act in contemporary society and highlighted its relevance for today’s youth.
Another guest of honour, Dr. Sanjukta Panda, Head of the Education Department and officer in charge of the Anti-Ragging Cell, informed the gathering that no ragging incident had been reported at the college so far. She explained the harmful consequences of ragging, the legal provisions against it and preventive measures. She also administered an anti-ragging pledge to the students and staff present.
In her presidential address, Principal Ms. Maleswari Sahu stressed that legal awareness is essential for every student. She said that along with knowing their rights, students must also be aware of their duties and responsibilities. An educational institution is not merely a centre for imparting knowledge, but also an important platform for developing students into responsible, aware and empowered citizens.
She emphasised the need for regular awareness programmes on legal rights, women’s safety, the POCSO Act and prevention of ragging. According to her, a safe, disciplined and respectful educational environment is fundamental to the overall development of students.
Shaktishree Empowerment Cell Coordinator Ms. Sunita Patra presented the objectives and details of the programme and efficiently coordinated the entire event.
During the workshop, awareness pamphlets explaining what students should and should not do under the law were also distributed.
The workshop was regarded as a meaningful initiative towards creating awareness among students about their rights, legal protection and responsibilities, while promoting a safe, respectful and law-aware educational environment.
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