Hassan Deputy Commissioner Advocates for Increased Adoption Awareness Programs
Deputy Commissioner KS Lathakumari has declared illegal adoption a significant social scourge and called for more frequent events to spread awareness about proper adoption procedures. She made these remarks while addressing an awareness program on adoption held at Hassanamba Kala Kshetra in Hassan.
Multi-Departmental Effort to Educate Public
The comprehensive program was organized through a collaborative effort involving multiple government bodies. These included the district administration, zilla panchayat, district legal services authority, police department, health and family welfare department, women and child development department, and the district child protection unit.
Lathakumari emphasized the fundamental importance of family in a child's life during her address. "Raising a child in the womb is not as challenging as raising one in the outside world, which remains the responsibility of parents," she stated, highlighting the ongoing commitment required in parenting.
Changing Social Dynamics and Legal Framework
The deputy commissioner noted concerning social changes among parents, observing that families without children often face societal stigma and discrimination. She explained that the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) was established by the Union government specifically to facilitate legal adoptions and protect children's rights.
"Legal registration is absolutely required to adopt a child, and after three to four years of proper registration, adoption becomes possible through authorized channels," Lathakumari clarified, outlining the formal process.
Protecting Children as Collective Responsibility
Lathakumari stressed that protecting children represents everyone's responsibility in society. She highlighted a concerning demographic trend: "While the number of children is decreasing nationwide, the number of people seeking adoption is increasing significantly."
The deputy commissioner expanded on the concept of motherhood, stating, "Being a mother is not just about nurturing a child in the womb, but about providing a secure and enlightened life for that child. The adoption process serves as a crucial support system for families and brings light to many children's lives."
Legal Compliance Over Emotional Considerations
Additional Superintendent of Police Srinidhi provided crucial legal perspectives during the program. He warned that emotional considerations alone are insufficient for adopting a child, emphasizing that strict legal regulations must be followed without exception.
"Everyone naturally loves children, but it is absolutely crucial to comply with legal norms alongside providing love and care," Srinidhi asserted. He explained that adoption laws have become increasingly stringent in recent times, with every step involving significant challenges and scrutiny.
The additional SP cautioned against attempts to circumvent legal requirements, noting that "small lies to cover up problems could impact the child's future significantly, creating long-term consequences."
Advancements in Legal Framework and Consequences
Srinidhi further elaborated on legal developments, stating that adoption law has advanced considerably, with every action now governed by specific legal rules that must be observed as a collective societal responsibility.
He issued a stern warning: "Failing to adhere to legal regulations in any adoption-related action could lead to severe consequences for all parties involved, particularly affecting the child's welfare and future opportunities."
Key Officials in Attendance
The awareness program saw participation from several key officials including Dharani Kumar from the women and child development department, district child protection officer Dileep KG, and health and family welfare department officer Anil, demonstrating multi-departmental commitment to addressing adoption issues.
The event underscored Hassan district's proactive approach to combating illegal adoption through education and inter-departmental cooperation, while promoting legal adoption channels that prioritize children's welfare and family stability.
