20-Point Program Vice President Raises Concerns Over Girls’ Safety
Key Points:
- Judicial investigation sought into alleged sexual abuse at girls’ shelter.
- Past irregularities at the shelter highlighted by 20-Point Vice President.
- Appeal made to CM Hemant Soren for strict measures on girls’ safety.
MEDININAGAR – Allegations of sexual abuse at a Palamu girls’ shelter have prompted demands for a judicial probe to ensure justice and safety for the victims.
Palamu District 20-Point Program Vice President Vimla Kumari raised the demand during a press conference on Wednesday. She revealed concerns about a shelter home managed by Vikas International, located in Soodna Panchvatinagar, Medininagar. The same organization previously ran a shelter in Shahpur, where severe irregularities were uncovered during an inspection on March 16, 2023.
Irregularities at Shahpur Shelter
During her earlier inspection, Kumari found that four intellectually disabled girls were locked in a single room. Additionally, a minor girl was reportedly married off without approval from the Deputy Commissioner or judicial authorities. These issues were flagged but dismissed by the then District Social Welfare Officer, Sandhya Rani, she said.
Despite documented evidence, the shelter was given a clean chit by the administration, she claimed.
Current Allegations at Panchvatinagar
The Panchvatinagar shelter, operated by 72-year-old Rampratap Gupta, is now under scrutiny following allegations of sexual abuse against him. Kumari has also called for a detailed investigation into the organization’s overall functioning. She expressed concerns about the safety of girls in such shelters and urged CM Hemant Soren to take stringent steps for their protection.
“These shelters must be thoroughly investigated to prevent further harm to vulnerable children,” Kumari stated.
The press conference highlighted the need for systemic reform to address safety and operational lapses in shelter homes.
