Chandigarh: Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh on Thursday assured Noble Laureate Kailash Satyarthi that his government would make Punjab a model state for safe childhood. The Chief Minister told Satyarthi, who called on him at his official residence here, that his government was taking various initiatives to secure children and ensure their safety. 

Steps were also being taken to rehabilitate victims of drug abuse, which had destroyed many young lives in the state, said Captain Amarinder. Satyarthi was in Chandigarh as part of his nationwide yatra for safe childhood and addressed students in Panjab University during the day. Responding to the Noble Laureate’s plea for support and cooperation from the state government for ensuring safe childhood, the Chief Minister said it was his government’s firm commitment to provide safety and security to children. 

Various measures were being taken to make police stations in the state child-friendly, said Captain Amarinder, adding that no effort would be spared to prevent child abuse in any form. The Chief Minister sought association and involvement of Satyarthi's `Bachpan Bachao’ organisation to create awareness about child safety in the state. Satyarthi said it was important to spread such awareness to check child abuse and violence.

 Reporting of such cases should be encouraged and stringent action should be taken against those found guilty of any acts which violate the safety of children, he added. Chief Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Suresh Kumar, Principal Secretary Tejveer Singh, Principal Secretary Labour Sanjay Kumar and other officials were also present in the meeting.