Child Rights Panel proposes alternative shelters to end stay of rescued children in police stations

New proposal aims to protect children’s mental well-being by identifying safe accommodation across districts

In a significant move aimed at improving child protection, the Child Rights Commission has proposed a new system to ensure that rescued children are not forced to stay in police stations due to logistical limitations.

Currently, in several districts, rescued children are required to remain at police stations, especially during night hours. This situation arises due to lack of vehicle facilities, long distances, and the inability to shift children immediately to safe care homes. Authorities have acknowledged that this arrangement has become unavoidable in certain regions.

Recognising the concern, the Commission has submitted a new proposal seeking the identification of alternative residential facilities exclusively for rescued children. The aim is to ensure safe accommodation without exposing children to stressful environments like police stations.

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The proposal was formally communicated through a letter written by Shashidhar Kosumbe, Secretary of the Women and Child Development Department, addressing the existing gaps in child care and protection systems.

The Commission has urged the government to bring in new amendments to resolve ongoing challenges faced during the rescue, care, and rehabilitation of children. Officials noted that staying in police stations could have a negative psychological impact on children, especially those already vulnerable due to difficult circumstances.

To address this, the Commission suggested that hostels could be used on a trial basis as temporary shelters. According to the proposal, these facilities can provide a safer and more child-friendly environment until proper long-term arrangements are made.

The move is intended to strengthen child safety measures and ensure that rescued children receive care, protection, and dignity without being exposed to institutional stress or fear.