Bihar Police to Set Up Child Help Desks in Every Police Station From October 2

Bihar Police to Set Up Child Help Desks in Every Police Station From October 2: What This Means for Children and Families

A police station can be an intimidating place for any child. For a child who has experienced abuse, faced exploitation, or become involved in a legal case, that fear can be even harder to explain.

From October 2, 2026, Bihar plans to introduce dedicated Child Help Desks in every police station, creating a separate space where children can seek help or interact with police in a safer, more child-friendly environment.

The initiative, announced through directions from Bihar Police Headquarters, follows orders from the Supreme Court and provisions under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015. The objective is to make police stations more approachable for children who need care, protection, or legal intervention.

What Is a Child Help Desk?

A Child Help Desk is a designated area within a police station set up specifically for children. Instead of placing children in general holding areas or regular interrogation rooms, the help desk provides a separate, supportive environment.

According to the directives issued by the police headquarters:

• Each desk will have a dedicated space, identifiable through clear signage.
• The desks will be located in areas that make them easy to access, including suitable provisions for children with disabilities.
• Essential facilities will include basic furniture, clean drinking water, age-appropriate toys, stationery, storybooks, and a child-friendly atmosphere.

The aim is to help reduce stress and anxiety when a child arrives at a police station.

Who Will Manage These Desks?

Each Child Help Desk will be managed by a designated Child Welfare Police Officer (CWPO), an officer not below the rank of Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI).

Where possible, authorities have directed that women police officers be assigned to the role. These officers will receive specialised training on child rights, child psychology, and relevant legislation, including the Juvenile Justice Act and the POCSO Act.

Why This Matters for Bihar

For many families, approaching the police can feel overwhelming, particularly when a child is involved. By creating designated help desks with trained personnel, the initiative aims to change that experience.

When a child in distress enters a police station, the first response often shapes how the case progresses. A child-friendly environment can help children feel secure enough to speak openly.

The real success of the initiative will depend on how effectively it is implemented across all districts. If supported with regular training and monitoring, these desks could represent a meaningful step towards making Bihar's justice system more compassionate and protective for children.

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