New rules to streamline children’s homes

With about 1,100 homes in the state and nearly 253 fresh applicants in line,the new rules are a ‘clean up’ operation in the wake of several institutions flouting norms. “All proposals will have to abide by the new rules and existing homes,nearly 1,000 in the state and 50 in the district,will have to implement them,’’ said deputy commissioner,Women and Child Welfare department,Ravi Patil.

The GR states that the rules have been re-framed to deliver justice better under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection) Act 2000 and to ensure protection of children in such homes.

He said these rules will ensure transparency in their functioning and ensure an adequate hold on government and private homes in the state. The new rules are a bid to enforce strict documentation by the department as well as the district women and child welfare department. Officials said the new rules will ensure strict monitoring.

Child Welfare Committee (CWC) member Anita Vipat said these rules should be soundly implemented.The rules range from ensuring the name of institutions during registration is used and details and photos of the building and affidavits and professional qualifications are attested by the district women and child welfare department. The homes have been asked to give the age group of children they intend to house,the minimum being 10 and the maximum 50. Rooms will be checked and there is a strict rule to have a toilet block for every seven children.

A bank statement with a bank balance of Rs 2 lakh and three years of work done in a social field will be assessed for registration.