MARGAO: In a letter sent to the South Goa Superintendent of Police (SP), the Goa State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (GSCPCR) has made a recommendation to the law enforcement agencies, asking them to reconsider the penal provisions applied to the mother who allegedly abandoned her one-and-a-half-month-old baby girl in Borda on Wednesday. The baby, born prematurely and suffering from health complications, was found in an isolated area behind the apartment complex the family lived in, leading to the arrest of her mother.
GSCPCR Chairperson Peter F Borges emphasised the need for understanding and compassion, stating, “In facing the immense challenges of caring for a premature infant with health issues, the line between despair and hope can blur. We must recognise the extreme pressures that led to this unfortunate incident and approach it with empathy and a sincere desire to support, rather than penalise the mother involved.”
The Commission believes that the mother’s actions were driven by overwhelming challenges and feelings of desperation, situations that many parents might find unfathomable unless faced with similar circumstances.
The recommendation seeks not only to address the immediate needs of the mother and child but also to initiate a broader conversation about the support systems available to parents in distress.
“We urge the authorities to consider the context in which these actions were taken and to respond with support and guidance. Our focus must remain on the well-being of the child and on providing the necessary resources to ensure a stable and nurturing environment,” Borges added.
“The Commission is committed to working closely with all stakeholders to enhance the support systems for families in crisis, advocating for policies that protect children while also considering the complex realities faced by parents,” Borges added.
Mother gets bail, infant lodged in children’s home
MARGAO: Priyanka Fernandes, 30, arrested for abandoning her infant girl on Wednesday, was granted bail by the Goa Children’s Court late Thursday evening. The bail was given on a bond of Rs 15,000, with a surety amount.
Fatorda police have registered an offence against Fernandes under Section 317 and 336 of the IPC, as well as Section 8 of the Goa Children’s Act, for the act of abandoning her one-and-a-half- month old daughter. Statements from Fernandes’ husband and others have been recorded as part of the investigation.
The infant was taken to South Goa District Hospital for a medical check-up, and was found to be
in good health. She has been lodged in Mathruchaya, a protective home for children.
