There is a well crafted system set in place in all districts for child rescue, with participation from the Women and Child Development wing and NGOs.
The Childline service at the toll free number ‘1098’ operates 24X7 across India for children in distress, and volunteers operate from locally chosen NGOs connected with the Childline.
As soon as the rescue alert is sounded out, the Child Welfare Committee of the particular district is contacted, who in turn alerts the District Child Protection Unit for action. Rescue operation is conducted by volunteers from the NGO connected with Childline, and the DCPO, with need-based aid from police.
“Availability of vehicle depends on how affluent the NGO is. Some of them such as M.V.Foundation have their own vehicles, and some other organisations with modest means don’t,” informs an official under the condition of anonymity.
Sakhi Centre at Vanasthalipuram has a vehicle, but when the location of rescue is far away, arrival of the vehicle itself would consume a lot of time, the official said.
After rescue, the child has to be counselled at Sakhi Centre and sent to the rescue home at Nimboli Adda in case of girls and at Saidabad if it is a boy. Child Welfare Committee during its hearing held twice weekly at the respective homes, will provide relief to the child, monetary and otherwise. The child is joined in school and allowed to pursue education.