Inclusive Legal Reform in Punjab
Punjab First to Empanel Sign Language Experts for Juvenile Justice: Punjab has become the first state in India to officially empanel sign language interpreters, translators, and special educators under the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015 and the POCSO Act, 2012. This initiative aims to ensure accessible justice for children with speech or hearing impairments.
The announcement was made by Baljit Kaur, Punjab’s Minister for Social Security. This step will bridge communication gaps in court proceedings, promoting fair and transparent outcomes in sensitive juvenile cases.
Static GK fact: The Juvenile Justice Act, 2015 governs the care and protection of children and includes provisions for rehabilitation and social reintegration.
Strengthening Access to Justice
The empanelled professionals will play a crucial role in court hearings, enabling children with communication disabilities to actively participate in their legal matters. This measure will ensure no child is denied their rights due to language barriers.
Static GK tip: The POCSO Act, 2012 is a gender-neutral law that protects children from sexual offences and provides child-friendly procedures for reporting and trial.
District-Wise Availability
The Punjab government plans district-level deployment of interpreters and educators. These professionals will be compensated according to the legal provisions under both Acts, ensuring continuous availability across the state.
This systematic placement guarantees that specialised support is provided promptly, even in remote districts.
Progressive Governance Model
Punjab’s move builds on previous measures to support the hearing-impaired community. The Punjab Vidhan Sabha has already introduced sign language broadcasts for important legislative proceedings. This practice sets a benchmark for inclusive governance in India.
Broader Human Rights Impact
The empanelment initiative is not limited to juvenile justice. It aligns with the broader human rights agenda, ensuring equal participation in the justice system for children with disabilities. By making the legal process inclusive, Punjab strengthens the foundation of rights-based governance.
Static GK fact: India officially recognised Indian Sign Language (ISL) in 2021, with the Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre leading standardisation efforts.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Punjab First to Empanel Sign Language Experts for Juvenile Justice:
| Fact | Detail |
| First state to empanel sign language experts under Juvenile Justice Act | Punjab |
| Acts covered under the initiative | Juvenile Justice Act 2015, POCSO Act 2012 |
| Minister announcing the decision | Baljit Kaur |
| Purpose of empanelment | To assist children with hearing or speech impairments in legal proceedings |
| Deployment plan | Across all districts in Punjab |
| Compensation basis | As per provisions of JJ Act and POCSO Act |
| Existing inclusive measure in Punjab | Vidhan Sabha proceedings broadcast in sign language |
| Year Indian Sign Language was officially recognised | 2021 |
| Institution for ISL development | Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre |
| Key benefit of the initiative | Inclusive access to justice for children with disabilities |
