Team Goemkarponn
GUIRIM: The Guirim Free Legal Aid Cell of V.M. Salgaocar College of Law organized “Beyond Barriers,” a major program focusing on Rights of Persons with Disabilities and Child Rights. Held on March 22, 2025, the program featured esteemed guest speaker Sayonara Telles-Laad who is the Former District & Sessions Judge, presently Adjudicating officer at Goa RERA and Advocate Krunal Kiran Thakur, spokesperson for the Commissioner of Disability Office and for Social Welfare Ministry only in particular to disability matter. The program was also graced by assistant professor Siddesh Tari of V.M. Salgaocar College of Law and Sandhya Shetye, chairperson of the Mahila Mandal.
The program highlighted the importance of protecting children and preventing child abuse, online grooming, and statutory rape. Madam Sayonara Telles- Laad also emphasized about the Children’s Court in Goa and the role of the child welfare committee. Speakers emphasized the need to treat persons with disabilities with dignity and respect, encouraging them to access government schemes and benefits. The program also covered topics such as early intervention centers, medical facilities, disability certificates, education, job opportunities for persons with disabilities and the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016.
With over 100 attendees, including the mahila mandal, children, and the general public, the program aimed to raise awareness, promote inclusivity, and empower individuals with knowledge about their rights and resources. Pamphlets were distributed, enabling the audience to know about the schemes available for the differently abled persons. The event sparked meaningful discussions, and Miss Jochele Correia has proposed the idea to execute “Beyond Barriers” as a project to make a greater impact.
The program was organised by student cell in-charges Miss Jochele Correia and Miss Saisha Satardekar. The program was successfully executed with the help of members Pooja Shetye, Richa Halarnkar, Disha Haldankar, Neelaya kalangutkar, Anisha Fadte, Shrijya Gauns and Srehya Kandolkar of the Guirim Free Legal Aid Cell.
