The Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, has raised alarm about the alarming increase in incidents involving young children being found dead or reported missing across the country. During her address, she called on families and communities to assume greater responsibility in ensuring the safety of children.
Kiran expressed her deep concern for the growing number of tragedies affecting young children, emphasizing that many of these incidents could potentially be averted through improved communication and supervision among family members, especially during school holidays when children are more vulnerable.
“In this era of mobile communication, it is essential for parents and guardians to prioritize knowing the whereabouts of their children at all times,” Kiran stated. She stressed that families must avoid complacency, urging them to remain in contact and not to assume a missing child is safe at a relative’s home without confirming their whereabouts.
The Minister highlighted a troubling trend where children found living on the streets are often returned to their families without any missing persons reports being filed. “These children are exposed to serious risks, yet no alarms were raised,” she pointed out, indicating a breakdown in family communication.
Moreover, Kiran noted the rise in drug-related incidents in communities, further complicating the safety landscape for children. She urged families to establish clear guidelines, such as sharing travel plans, expected arrival times, and making sure to communicate any changes promptly.
In her closing remarks, Kiran reminded everyone that the holiday period should be a time for relaxation, joy, and the strengthening of family bonds rather than a season marked by preventable harm. She encouraged family elders to maintain open lines of communication with children, regularly check on their wellbeing, and ensure they are not left unsupervised in potentially hazardous environments.
For children who feel unsafe, distressed, or in need of support, Kiran urged them to reach out to the Ministry’s 24-hour toll-free Child Helpline at 1325, signaling a proactive step towards safeguarding their rights and welfare. This call to action aims to foster a more caring and vigilant community environment, ensuring that children can thrive in safe and nurturing surroundings.