Has Karnataka Government Made Child Engagement a Punishable Offence?
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Synopsis
In a groundbreaking decision, the Karnataka government has criminalized child engagement, aiming to protect the rights of children. This move comes alongside the approval of several other significant bills and initiatives aimed at improving public safety and welfare.
Key Takeaways
- Karnataka government makes child engagement a punishable offence.
- Cabinet approves early release of life convicts.
- New amendments aim to enhance fire safety regulations.
- Medicines procurement approved for public health institutions.
- Development project for Yellamma Hills receives funding.
Bengaluru, July 24 (NationPress) The Karnataka government has taken a significant step by declaring child engagement a punishable offence during a cabinet meeting led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Thursday.
In a statement to the press, Minister for Law and Parliamentary Affairs H.K. Patil announced that the cabinet has sanctioned the Prohibition of Child Marriage (Karnataka Amendment) Bill, 2025, which aims to criminalize child engagements. This bill is set to be introduced in the legislature.
The cabinet also approved the early release of 46 life convicts from various state prisons based on recommendations. Furthermore, three convicts are to be released pending approval from the Union Home Ministry under Article 161 of the Constitution, he explained.
Additionally, the Karnataka Cabinet endorsed the Karnataka Fire Services (Amendment) Bill, 2025. To boost the effectiveness of the Fire and Emergency Services Department, amendments to Section 15 of the Karnataka Fire Force Act, 1964, are proposed, along with a plan to impose a Fire Cess of 1% on newly built multi-storey structures in the state, according to Minister Patil.
The cabinet also sanctioned the procurement of 890 medicines, consumables, and chemicals for public health institutions for the fiscal year 2025–26, at an estimated cost of Rs 880.68 crore, through a competitive tendering process as per the Karnataka Transparency in Public Procurement (KTPP) Act, 1999, and KTPP Rules, 2000.
Approval was also given for a Rs 215.37 crore development project at Yellamma Hills in Savadatti, Belagavi district. This will be executed under various schemes, including the Sasaki Plan (Rs 100 crore), the PRASAD scheme (Rs 18 crore), the Renuka Yellamma Temple Development Authority (Rs 97 crore), and the Tourism Department (Rs 15 crore), as stated by Minister Patil.
Furthermore, the Karnataka Platform-Based Gig Workers (Social Security and Welfare) Bill, 2025, which was promulgated as an ordinance on May 30, 2025, is scheduled to be introduced in the upcoming legislative session.
Lastly, the cabinet has consented to renew the lease for Ranga Shankara, one of Bengaluru's prominent theatres. The lease for Site No. 36/2, JP Nagar 2nd Phase, covering 1,354.50 sq.m., will be renewed at 25% of the annual lease amount plus applicable GST, as mentioned by Minister Patil.
Point of View
The Karnataka government's decision to criminalize child engagement is a necessary step towards safeguarding children's rights. It reflects a growing recognition of the need to protect vulnerable populations in our society. The accompanying measures to improve public safety and welfare are equally commendable, demonstrating a holistic approach to governance.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new law regarding child engagement in Karnataka?
The Karnataka government has introduced a bill making child engagement a punishable offence to protect children's rights.
What other measures were approved in the cabinet meeting?
The cabinet approved the early release of life convicts, amendments to fire safety laws, and a significant development project at Yellamma Hills.
What is the estimated cost of medicines approved for public health?
The cabinet approved procurement of medicines at an estimated cost of Rs 880.68 crore for the year 2025-26.
How does the Karnataka Government plan to enhance fire safety?
The government plans to levy a Fire Cess of 1% on newly constructed multi-storey buildings to improve fire safety services.
When will the Karnataka Platform-Based Gig Workers Bill be introduced?
The bill will be tabled in the upcoming legislative session after being previously promulgated as an ordinance.
