Through
this exercise, Cry and Dip Trix aimed at increasing
public awareness on the rights of children in India.
The signature campaign witnessed participation from
the citizens of Mumbai, as the demands cited in the
charter were put forth by Cry. To further this, specific
demands will be made to the government to address
these rights, informs an official release.
Commenting
on the social awareness campaign, General Mills India
Pvt Ltd managing director Anindo Mukherji said, "As
a brand for kids, Dip Trix cares about the young population
of India and their rights. We truly believe that the
children need to be heard, cared for, protected and
involved in decisions about their life, empowering
them today to explore their potential. This association
with Cry has given Dip Trix the opportunity to speak
up for children and demand for what is rightfully
theirs."
Cry
director-West Irwin Fernandes said, "The signature
campaign provides a unique platform for people to
stand for child rights. With Young Champs, Mumbaikars
and brands like Dip Trix joining hands with Cry, it
states the single message: Child Rights is not just
the purview of the development sector. It is a responsibility
for each one of us - no matter who we are or what
we do. It strongly articulates Cry's conviction that
change is possible when people come together for a
common objective."
The
'Child Rights First Charter' includes the following
points:
-
I believe it is every child's right to be in a good
school close to her/his home hence, I demand that
the BMC start adequate number of good schools in Mumbai
to provide for it's 6,50,000 children.
-
I believe no child should be malnourished and must
have access to quality health service. Hence, I demand
the state open new and efficiently run public health
clinics, hospitals and PDS (ration) shops.
-
I believe no child should work. Hence, I demand complete
prohibition of child labour in all places and adequate
support by the government to ensure they stay out
of labour.
-
I believe that play and recreation is the birthright
of every child. Hence, I demand more open public spaces
and playgrounds for the children of Mumbai.
-
I believe no child should have to live on the streets,
in unhygienic conditions without access to water and
electricity. Hence, I demand the state in its infrastructure
plan incorporate quality yet cheap housing option
for children and their parents.
-
I believe that parents when empowered can care well
for their children. Hence, I demand that state initiates
an urban employment generation scheme for 22,00,000
jobless parents in Mumbai.
I
make these demands from my representative from Mumbai
elected to the city municipality, state legislature
and the country's parliament.