PANJIM: Goa State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (GSCPCR) has directed District Collectors – North and South – to ensure urgent rescue and rehabilitation of children in street situation.
The Commission said that it is appalled by the situation of astonishing number of children in street situation along with their families amidst the festivities, events and other melas happening at various places in Goa. The Commission noted that a large number of children which includes infants are found sleeping in open public places, especially in Margao and Mapusa KTC bus stands.
“Trapped in a situation of disintegrating family ties and poverty, children are forced to take to the streets or to create their own survival strategies, including begging on the streets,” the Commission said.
Further, dropping temperatures are adding to the vulnerability of families who are increasingly unable to provide for their children’s basic needs, including winter clothes, food, clothing and a roof over their heads, making them vulnerable to abuse and severe health conditions, it observed.
