𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐧 𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐭 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐋𝐚𝐰 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐁𝐡𝐮𝐭𝐚𝐧

…𝑺𝒖𝒃𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝑨𝒃𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑭𝒐𝒓𝒆𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒏𝒕

By Lalit Gurung

The nation is witnessing a troubling increase in the number of children in conflict with the law. This year, 240 cases were registered, a significant rise from 176 cases last year, according to the Royal Bhutan Police (RBP). The statistics highlight a growing issue that demands immediate and concerted action.

Substance abuse remains the leading cause of juvenile offenses, with 180 cases recorded this year compared to 137 in 2023.

Other crimes include 29 cases of battery, six instances of auto stripping, and 25 miscellaneous offenses, pointing to a widening range of illegal activities involving children under 18 years of age.

To tackle this pressing issue, Bhutan has made strides in developing a robust legal and institutional framework. The cornerstone of these efforts is the Child Care and Protection Act (CCPA) of 2011, which provides a comprehensive framework to safeguard children in difficult circumstances and those in conflict with the law.

Complementing this legislation, the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) on Case Management for Children in Conflict with the Law were introduced to ensure systematic and effective services. These SOPs outline the roles and responsibilities of stakeholders and provide a roadmap for case management, from registration to reintegration.

The SOP development was a collaborative effort involving key institutions such as the Royal Court of Justice (RCJ), Office of the Attorney General (OAG), RBP, Bhutan National Legal Institute (BNLI), and the National Commission for Women and Children (NCWC). However, effective implementation remains a challenge, particularly in terms of rehabilitation and reintegration services.

The NCWC plays a pivotal role in child protection efforts. Reena Thapa, Chief Program Officer of NCWC, emphasized the need for stronger implementation of existing SOPs and highlighted the lack of aftercare services for rehabilitated children.

“Despite efforts to develop relevant SOPs, limited implementation hampers effective child protection and stakeholder coordination,” Reena Thapa said. She noted that the Justice Sector Strategic Plan-II (JSSP-II) aims to advance justice sector reforms under Bhutan’s 13th Five-Year Plan. This strategic plan prioritizes expanding legal aid, promoting inclusivity, fostering transparency, and ensuring climate resilience within the justice system. Additionally, the NCWC is reviewing the CCPA to further enhance child protection measures.

Nazhoen Lamtoen, a civil society organization, has taken a proactive approach to support children post-release from the Youth Development and Rehabilitation Center (YDRC). Since its establishment, the organization has partnered with agencies such as UNICEF Bhutan, Save the Children, and Helvetas Bhutan to build its capacity and enhance services for disadvantaged children. Currently, Nazhoen Lamtoen is working with 62 children, providing vocational training, employment opportunities, counselling, and educational support.

“Reintegration into society is challenging due to the social stigma these children face,” said Ugyen Wangchuk, Administration Officer at Nazhoen Lamtoen. He urged parents to actively support their children’s rehabilitation. The organization also addresses the root causes of juvenile delinquency, such as difficult family circumstances and lack of opportunities, through community programs and life skills training at YDRC in Tsimasham, Chhukha Dzongkhag.

The rise in juvenile offenses highlights the need for a multi-faceted approach involving prevention, early intervention, and robust rehabilitation mechanisms. Addressing substance abuse,the most prevalent offense that requires targeted interventions, including community education, awareness campaigns, and accessible rehabilitation programs.

Additionally, the increase in battery cases and crimes like auto stripping highlights the necessity for strategies that address both the symptoms and root causes of juvenile delinquency.