By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Nov 20: The old Meghalaya Legislative Assembly building in Khyndai Lad took centre stage in the state’s observance of World Children’s Day, illuminating its iconic building in blue on Wednesday and Thursday. The High Court of Meghalaya also joined the global initiative in a gesture that is seen as the state’s commitment to championing the rights, safety and well-being of every child in Meghalaya.
Speaker Thomas A Sangma has also supported the initiative, reinforcing the Legislature’s dedication to child rights.
Notably, World Children’s Day, commemorated annually on November 20, marks the adoption of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child — the most widely ratified human rights treaty in history. As part of UNICEF’s global “Go Blue” campaign, significant buildings and monuments across India and the world light up in blue to demonstrate solidarity with children.
This year’s theme, “My Day. My Rights.”, encourages society to understand child rights through the lens of a child’s everyday experiences — from a girl walking to school in a remote village to an adolescent seeking emotional support. It serves as a reminder that rights must be woven into children’s everyday realities of health, education, protection, and participation.
Reaffirming the Assembly’s commitment, Andrew Simons, Commissioner and Secretary of the Assembly, said the institution was proud to stand with children on a day of global significance. He noted that iconic national landmarks such as Rashtrapati Bhavan and India Gate also participate in the initiative. “In solidarity with what is being observed across the globe, we are illuminating the Assembly building in blue to promote the rights, welfare, and development of children,” he said.
UNICEF Assam and Northeast Chief of Field Office, Dr Madhulika Jonathan, appreciated the leadership shown by the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly. She noted that the gesture reflects a broader state commitment to building a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment for children.
“World Children’s Day is UNICEF’s global day of action for children, by children. Lighting up the Assembly and the High Court in blue reflects Meghalaya’s resolve to put children’s rights at the forefront,” she said.
