Itanagar: The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has taken a significant step to address allegations against Pastor Paul Dinakaran, accused of using magical remedies to purportedly cure diseases in children during a recent “prayer festival” in Arunachal.
The Commission has initiated an inquiry and called upon local authorities to take appropriate actions against him.
Established under the Commission for Protection of Child Rights (CPCR) Act, 2005, the NCPCR has the authority to safeguard children’s rights and oversee the implementation of various child-related laws, including the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012; Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015; and Right to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act, 2009.
In response to a complaint filed by the Social Justice Forum of Arunachal (SJFA), the Commission noted that “Pastor Paul Dinakaran was claiming to cure diseases using supernatural powers and even presented children he claimed to have healed in front of an audience.”
The complaint included photo and video evidence of these activities.
“The NCPCR views this matter with utmost seriousness, as it believes that Pastor Paul Dinakaran’s actions contravene the Drugs & Magical Remedies Act-1954 and expose tribal children to public gatherings, propagating blind faith and superstition. Pursuant to Section 13(1) (j) of the CPCR Act, 2005, the Commission has initiated an inquiry into the matter,” a notice issued by Commissioner chairperson Priyank Kanoongo to the state’s Director General of Police and Chief Secretary read.
The Commission has further urged the local authorities to file an FIR against Pastor Paul Dinakaran based on the video and photographic evidence.
Furthermore, it has requested authorities to identify the children claimed to have been healed by the Pastor and refer them to government hospitals for comprehensive medical and psychological evaluations, ensuring the identification and treatment of any ailments or psychological distress. The children will also receive necessary psychological counseling.
The Child Welfare Committee (CWCs) will be involved in recording statements from the affected children and providing them with appropriate counseling in line 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, inclusive of an FIR copy, statements from the children and their parents, and pertinent records.
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