Families are being encouraged to maintain close connections with their children amidst an alarming increase in reports of missing and vulnerable minors. Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran emphasizes that parents, guardians, and caregivers should always know the whereabouts of their children and remain vigilant to the various risks that children face, particularly those who may be living on the streets or away from home.
In her recent statement, Kiran highlighted that children believed to be safe while staying with relatives or in community settings may still be at risk, especially given the rising influence of drugs in these environments. She advocates for families to establish clear communication protocols that include sharing travel plans, arrival times, and any changes to regular routines.
Holiday seasons, as Kiran points out, should represent a time for relaxation, joy, and strengthening family bonds rather than incidents of preventable harm. She stresses the importance of regularly checking in on children and avoiding leaving them unsupervised in potentially unsafe situations.
For children feeling unsafe or in need of assistance, the Ministry offers a toll-free Child Helpline at 1325, which is available 24/7. Trained counselors are ready to provide a listening ear, guidance, and connections to appropriate support services. Parents and guardians are also invited to utilize the helpline for advice on child behavior and managing difficult situations.
The Ministry underscores that child protection is a collective responsibility that involves families, neighbors, community leaders, and various institutions. Kiran reassured that the government is committed to working alongside stakeholders to fortify child protection systems and ensure a swift response to any incidents of harm.
Through these initiatives, there is hope for a safer environment for children, encouraging communities to come together to support and protect their most vulnerable members.
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