Abandoned Special Needs Girl Rescued in Ranchi, Authorities Launch Search for Parents
In a distressing incident in Ranchi, a 10-year-old girl with mental challenges, who was abandoned by her parents in front of the Ranchi Institute of Neuro-Psychiatry and Applied Sciences (Rinpas), was successfully rescued by the Ranchi district legal services authority (DLSA) on Thursday. This case highlights the vulnerabilities faced by children with disabilities and the swift response of legal and social services in the city.
Immediate Rescue and Medical Care
The DLSA acted promptly after being alerted by a para-legal volunteer (PLV) who reported seeing the girl roaming near Rinpas late on Wednesday evening. Upon receiving the information, DLSA chairman and Ranchi judicial commissioner AK Mishra directed secretary Rakesh Roushan to provide immediate aid to the child. The secretary appointed two PLVs to take care of her and arranged for her to stay overnight at a local dharmshala, ensuring her safety until further steps could be taken.
The authority then facilitated her treatment at Rinpas, where she received necessary medical attention for her condition. After her health was stabilized, the DLSA handed her over to the child welfare committee, strongly urging the members to provide a safe and secure shelter for her long-term care and protection.
Investigation and Public Appeal
In an effort to trace the girl's parents and understand the circumstances of her abandonment, the DLSA has requested Rinpas authorities to share footage from closed circuit television cameras (CCTV) installed in the area by the medical institution. This move aims to gather crucial evidence that could lead to identifying those responsible for leaving the child in such a vulnerable state.
Additionally, the Kanke police station has been involved in the investigation, collaborating with legal services to ensure a thorough probe into the matter. To broaden the search, DLSA secretary Rakesh Roushan has made a public appeal, urging citizens to report any information related to the child by contacting the number 15100. This step emphasizes the community's role in safeguarding children and supporting authorities in such sensitive cases.
Broader Implications and Response
This incident sheds light on the critical need for enhanced support systems for children with special needs in India, particularly in urban areas like Ranchi. The coordinated response by DLSA, Rinpas, and the police underscores the importance of inter-agency collaboration in addressing child welfare issues. It also raises awareness about the legal and social mechanisms available to protect abandoned children, encouraging public vigilance and reporting.
As the investigation continues, authorities remain committed to ensuring the girl's well-being and holding accountable those who neglected their parental duties. The case serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in child protection and the vital role of legal services in upholding justice for the most vulnerable members of society.