Illegal adoption was a social scourge, says deputy commissioner

Hassan: Illegal adoption was a social scourge, and events spreading awareness should be hosted more often, stated deputy commissioner KS Lathakumari.She spoke at an awareness programme on adoption held at Hassanamba Kala Kshetra. The programme was organised by district administration, zilla panchayat, district legal services authority, police department, health and family welfare department, women and child development department, and district child protection unit.She emphasised the importance of family in a child's life. Raising a child in the womb was not as challenging as raising one in the outside world, which was the responsibility of the parents, she said. Social changes among parents were increasing, and families without children were often looked down upon in the society, she noted.The Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) was established by the Union govt for adopting children, she said. Legal registration was required to adopt a child, and after 3-4 years of registration, adoption was possible, she stated. Protecting children was everyone's responsibility, she stated."While the number of children was decreasing, the number of people seeking adoption was increasing. Being a mother was not just about nurturing a child in the womb, but about providing a secure and enlightened life. Adoption process served as a support system for families and brought light to many," she mentioned.Additional SP Srinidhi stated that emotional considerations were not enough for adopting a child, and that legal regulations must be followed. Everyone loves children, but it is crucial to comply with legal norms alongside love and care, he said.In recent times, the law has became very stringent, and every step involves challenges, he explained. Small lies to cover up problems could impact the child's future significantly, he added.The law also advanced significantly, and every action was governed by legal rules, which must be observed as a collective responsibility, he said. Failing to adhere to legal regulations in any action could lead to severe consequences, he warned.Dharani Kumar from the women and child development department, district child protection officer Dileep KG, health and family welfare department officer Anil, were present.