A group of 30 child parliamentarians of Delhi Children’s Inclusive Parliament (DICP) , from RPVV, Hari Nagar and other schools went to Delhi Assembly as a delegation, did appraisal of sitting MLAs & government and recommended Midday meal scheme be extended to class XII
About two years ago, Rajkiya Pratibha Vikas Vidyalaya (RPVV), Hari Nagar, one of 22 high performing pace setting schools of Delhi government, held a children parliament and hosted student representatives and teachers of the Ireland. It was best start to a new way of giving voice to children and listen to their ideas. Ever since children parliament of Bal Sansad is a regular body at the school with a council.
On Children’s Day, Nov 14, 30 of these student parliamentarians, made a historical visit to Delhi Assembly and deliberated with MLAs on the floor of the house. Earlier, like many guests, children too have seen the proceedings from the visitor gallery but not participated in discussion. The child parliamentarians critically reviewed the work of their adult counter parts and the elected government of NCT of Delhi. It was a wonderful experience to hear the Child ministers and representative putting forth their views impartially and in a forthright manner without fear or favour. “It was a very special and distinct day wherein a new chapter of democracy in India was written with emancipated agency of children taking floor,” says Ajay Kumar, principal RPVV, Hari Nagar.
The Child Parliamentarians shared their personal experiences and challenges they faced regarding fundamental child rights which include rights to education,, survival ,development, protection and participation. The participants, specially the Speaker Elect, were articulate and confident. The participants from RPVV, Hari Nagar stood out .They were confident , articulate and knowledgeable while reflecting on the issues affecting their areas .They informed the house about the BAL Sansad which has been functioning in their school for the past 3years and outlined its working. They also came up with pertinent recommendations and questions for the honorable members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) of NCT of Delhi present in the house.
Pankaj Pushkar, MLA from Timarpur Assembly constituency lauded the children and said it was a historical occasion and it was fitting that it took place in an institution which was witness to an incident which proved a turning point in Indian History. He wished children to emerge as organic politicians in the interest of people and society. All the MLAs present took pledge and took responsibility for advocating the recommendations made by them before Dy. C.M and other ministers.
Due credit must go to efforts of PRATYeK and its team along with former advisor to Deputy CM Atishi Marlena, for supporting RPVV, Hari Nagar to establish and nurture Bal Sansad.
