Naharlagun, Nov 4: The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has launched an inquiry in response to allegations against Pastor Paul Dinakaran, who is accused of using supernatural powers to supposedly cure diseases in children during a recent “prayer festival” in Arunachal Pradesh. The Commission is calling for appropriate actions to be taken against the pastor based on photo and video evidence provided by the Social Justice Forum of Arunachal (SJFA).
The complaint filed against Pastor Paul Dinakaran states that he claimed to cure diseases using supernatural means and presented children he allegedly healed in front of an audience. The NCPCR views these actions as a violation of the Drugs & Magical Remedies Act-1954 and as exposing tribal children to public gatherings that propagate superstition and blind faith.
Under Section 13(1)(j) of the Commission for Protection of Child Rights (CPCR) Act, 2005, the Commission has initiated an inquiry into the matter. Chairperson Priyank Kanoongo has issued a notice to the state’s Director General of Police and Chief Secretary, emphasizing the gravity of the situation and calling for the filing of an FIR against Pastor Paul Dinakaran based on the available evidence.
Furthermore, the NCPCR has requested local authorities to identify the children claimed to have been healed by the pastor and to refer them to government hospitals for comprehensive medical and psychological evaluations. This step is taken to ensure the identification and treatment of any ailments or psychological distress the children may be experiencing, with necessary psychological counseling provided to the affected children.
The Child Welfare Committee (CWCs) will be responsible for recording statements from the affected children and providing them with appropriate counseling in accordance with the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection) Act, 2015.
The NCPCR has set a seven-day deadline for local authorities to submit an Action Taken Report. This report should include an FIR copy, statements from the children and their parents, as well as any relevant records related to the case. The actions of the Commission reflect its dedication to safeguarding children’s rights and ensuring the enforcement of child-related laws.
