Ministry warns parents: neglect could trigger legal action over children loitering
The Ministry of Women, Children, and Social Protection has urged parents and guardians to keep children safe at home and away from the streets, warning that allowing a child to loiter could lead to legal action for neglect. Minister Sashi Kiran emphasized that protecting children is both a constitutional right and a moral duty.
You are your child’s first line of protection, the minister said, adding that neglect will not be overlooked. If a child under a caregiver’s care is found loitering or living on the streets, authorities will pursue charges.
The ministry highlighted that ongoing support programs are available for financially strapped families. While assistance can help with livelihoods, using children to earn a living remains unacceptable and is an offence. In recent weeks, authorities have been removing children from streets, offering a shower, a meal, and counselling through the collaboration of MSP (Medical Services Pacific) and the Salvation Army, with returning children to their homes followed by a review of each case. If some children return to street life, the next step will be to charge the parents for neglect.
Loitering on the streets is an offence under the Minor Offences Act, carrying penalties of up to three months’ imprisonment. The ministry and law enforcement say they will continue to work together to keep children safe and to deter exploitative practices.
Public guidance and reporting channels remain open: report children at risk to the nearest police station or call the Child Helpline at 1325.
Summary: The government is intensifying its stance against street begging and loitering by children, reinforcing parental responsibility and promising legal action for neglect while offering support programs to help families in need. The initiative underscores a joint effort by social protection services and law enforcement to safeguard children’s rights and welfare, with a hopeful focus on keeping youths safe and supported.
Additional value and context:
– What this means for families: If you’re facing financial hardship, reach out to the ministry’s supported programs for aid and guidance. The emphasis is on protecting children, not punitive action against families seeking help.
– Practical steps for guardians: Monitor children’s activities and whereabouts, foster safe indoor or supervised outdoor time, engage with available social services, and report concerns promptly to authorities or the helpline.
– Community call-to-action: Share information with neighbors and local groups to create a protective network around children, reducing street exposure and exploitation.
– Positive outlook: The framework aims to protect vulnerable youths while connecting families with resources, with the goal of keeping children safe, healthy, and on a path toward brighter futures.
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