Srinagar, Nov 14: In a special gesture of care and encouragement, Justice Sanjeev Kumar, Judge, High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh and Executive Chairman, J&K Legal Services Authority, celebrated Children’s Day with inmates of Paresha (Children Home for Girls) and Palash (Children Home for Boys) at Ishber, Nishat, Srinagar, on Saturday.

The celebration aimed at promoting child welfare, boosting the confidence of children and reaffirming the commitment of institutions towards their protection, education and overall development.
During the visit, Justice Sanjeev Kumar interacted with the children, listened to their aspirations and encouraged them to pursue education, nurture their talents and remain confident about their future. He observed that every child deserves equal opportunities, affection, protection and a dignified environment to realise their potential.
He emphasised that children residing in institutional care require special attention and sustained support to grow into confident and responsible individuals.
The programme featured several cultural and recreational activities, with children presenting a traditional Kashmiri Rauf performance that showcased the region’s rich cultural heritage. Musical chairs, spoon races and other activities added to the festive atmosphere.
A cake-cutting ceremony was also held, with Justice Sanjeev Kumar and other dignitaries joining the children in the celebrations.
As part of the initiative, bicycles, cricket kits, blankets, sports uniforms and other essential items were distributed among the children to support their recreational interests and daily needs.
Smart Boards were also provided to both children’s homes to promote technology-enabled learning and improve access to modern educational facilities.
Justice Sanjeev Kumar stressed that safeguarding children from abuse, exploitation, neglect and discrimination is a collective social and constitutional responsibility. He also highlighted the role of Legal Services Institutions in creating awareness about child rights, facilitating access to justice and extending assistance to vulnerable children.
He called for coordinated efforts by the Legal Services Authority, Social Welfare Department, educational institutions and other stakeholders to strengthen child protection and welfare mechanisms.
The event was attended by Member Secretary J&K Legal Services Authority Shazia Tabasum, Principal District and Sessions Judge Srinagar Naseer Ahmad Dar, Director School Education Kashmir Naseer Ahmad, Joint Registrar Protocol Jahangir Ahmad Bakhshi, District Social Welfare Officer Srinagar Dr Mukhtiyar Ahmad, representatives of the Cricket Association of Jammu & Kashmir and officials of both children's homes, among others.
The children enthusiastically participated in the celebrations and expressed happiness over the interaction and gifts, making the occasion memorable.
The programme reaffirmed the J&K Legal Services Authority’s commitment to promoting child rights, dignity, protection and equal opportunities for every child.