NEWS
Salesian Priest Dr. M. Casimir Raj Appointed to Tamil Nadu Child Rights Commission
In recognition of his lifelong commitment to the welfare of vulnerable children, the Government of Tamil Nadu has appointed Fr. Dr. M. Casimir Raj, SDB, as a Member of the Tamil Nadu Commission for Protection of Child Rights (TNCPCR). The appointment marks a significant step in the State’s mission to advance child rights through inclusive governance and partnership with civil society.
A Salesian of Don Bosco, Fr. Dr. Casimir Raj, joins the reconstituted Commission alongside the Chairperson and five other members for a three-year term. He brings decades of experience in child protection, institutional care reform, and youth empowerment to the body, particularly through his leadership within the Young at Risk (YaR) Movement of South India.
“This is not just a position, but a mission—to work with the State, civil society, and communities to ensure that every child in Tamil Nadu grows up safe, protected, and empowered,” said Rev. Dr. Casimir. “Together, we can build a state where child rights are not just upheld but celebrated.”
Known for his tireless advocacy for orphans, street-connected children, school dropouts, and child labourers, Dr. Casimir has championed the vision of a ‘Child-Friendly Society’ grounded in Salesian values of human dignity, loving-kindness, and preventive care.
His appointment extends a longstanding Salesian legacy of collaboration with government bodies across India. Salesian priests from Tiruchy Province have historically played vital roles in child welfare boards, education and skill development missions, and youth policy frameworks. And Fr. Arockia Raj’s current role with the Tamil Nadu Public Service Commission (TNPSC) further reflects this deep commitment to public service.
Earlier, Salesians such as Fr. Rayan, Fr. Denis, Fr. Xavier, and Fr. Santhan from Tiruchy Province have made significant contributions through government-linked programs and commissions focusing on child protection, education, and youth welfare.
The TNCPCR, established under the Commission for Protection of Child Rights Act, 2005, functions as an independent statutory body ensuring that every child in Tamil Nadu enjoys the rights guaranteed under the Constitution and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
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