The Women and Child Development (WCD) department's audit has uncovered alarming conditions inside several dharmashalas and religious hostels housing children in the temple town of Alandi, located about 25 km from Pune. The exercise aimed to identify violations and initiate action against institutions operating illegally or failing to provide minimum care standards, following recent cases of abuse.
Key Findings of the Audit
Alandi, a major pilgrimage center, has nearly 170 registered dharmashalas where children from Maharashtra and neighboring states stay to learn kirtan, bhajan, pravachan, and musical instruments like tabla, pakhawaj, and harmonium. Officials noted overcrowded rooms, poor hygiene, inadequate food facilities, and the absence of basic educational and recreational infrastructure.
Overcrowding and Poor Living Conditions
In many institutions, five to six children are forced to live in a single cramped room. There are no proper kitchens, and the quality of food provided is extremely poor. The audit revealed that many children were allegedly sent to nearby villages to collect food, which was later served to them twice a day. Authorities are examining whether such practices amount to exploitation and violation of child welfare norms.
Lack of Qualified Teachers and Structured Training
Despite charging substantial fees for accommodation and religious education, many institutions reportedly lacked qualified teachers or structured training programs. Children are taught very basic skills with no dedicated music teachers or fixed schedules for learning. The overall atmosphere is adverse and does not encourage the growth of children, said activist Vilas Kate from Alandi.
Kate added that the system does not support the future of children living in the dharmashalas. They neither receive proper religious education nor continue formal academic studies, leaving their future uncertain while some dharmashala operators continue to profit. He urged the state to act firmly.
Illegal Constructions and Lack of Permissions
Officials also found several institutions functioning without necessary permissions from the state government. Illegal construction activities came under scrutiny during the inspections. Chief officer of the Alandi Municipal Council, Madhav Khandekar, stated that over the years, some sansthas have illegally added floors and expanded their premises without permission. Action has already been initiated against two institutions.
However, local activists deemed the current action insufficient, calling for expansion to all violators. Activist Arjun Medankar said authorities have acted only against a few institutions, while many others continue to function. Action should be continuous and strict enough to send out a strong message. Parents often send their children to Alandi with hopes of religious and cultural education, but the students live in poor and exploitative conditions.
Future Actions and Regular Audits
WCD department officials said a detailed report is being prepared, and further action, including closure notices and criminal proceedings against erring institutions, may follow soon. Child protection officer S Khokle, part of the inspection, stated that they have decided to audit these institutes every three months now. This was their first exercise, and they have learned certain lessons, incorporating certain parameters in the next audit. The local administration will take the final action against these institutes, and they will highlight issues institution-wise.
