Taking it Personally...

How far would you go?

To stand for your beliefs… or change the course of someone’s life…

Especially if that someone is a stranger.

Moreover, does the initiative come with a long-term responsibility, not a short-term band-aid, or an ode to Karma?

Many such questions swept through my friend’s mind (and much later in my mind) when she laid her eyes on Sushma (name changed) – a 10-year-old orphan girl, homeless roaming around a park in Gurugram one morning, where she goes for her morning runs. ?

Let that sink in…

A 10-year-old child. Without parents. Without a home. Left to fend for herself in the 'Millennium City of India.' Gurugram. The city that has no time for anyone. Indeed, It speaks to the reality of the Economically Weaker Section.

Before my friend discovered her, apparently, Sushma had sought refuge with a non-profit organization. The experience had been incredibly distressing for the child. So, she chose to flee and beg on the streets instead.

For most of us, that’s a common site across the country of 1.4 billion people – many unfortunate children deserted by their parents or relatives passing through our eyes on road crossings, train stations, public spaces – looking helplessly to deal the cards life has dealt them.

And most of us choose to offer short-term solutions like money, food, or clothes – knowing fully that a tiny step wouldn’t make much difference in dealing with this pandemic. Sometimes, it takes more than good intentions and prayers to make a change. Action is a good starting point. #notetoself

I'm not being judgemental here of anyone other than myself, and if you could relate to this, then it's good to understand our flaws. But the truth is, only a few people in the world choose to look beyond the rationality of life and take a leap of faith – one which can lead some of them to fly, too. It is one such true tale that inspired me to get inspired by a friend’s action. It is one such post from the friend’s Social Media handle that piqued my interest.

My friend and her family took the onus of Sushma’s safety and well-being for over a month. Going back and forth, following up with the Police all the while.?The Police were involved.? But their intervention seemed inadequate.

Indeed, the power of giving back to society comes from within. Not because you have a lot of money or time to give. In my view, it’s only about genuine intent, compassion, and the willingness to do the right thing.

My friend’s continuing struggle and the ordeal of that little child did not stop playing on my mind. While I remained unsure of outcomes, and of being acquainted with the right people in circles of influence, I called her to ask if I could be of any help. The focus was on a long-term resolution and not a mere short-term fix. Thanks to a fantastic colleague, we contacted one of the officials at the Child Welfare Committee in Delhi. It was a significant breakthrough. But for us, the challenges did not end there. Before we could finally rehabilitate Sushma, innumerable calls had to be made. Reminders had to be issued. We had to follow up daily to prod the Gurgaon CWC team into action. Emotional upheavals, outbursts, opinions, and personal sensitivities had to be dealt with. The mention of a medical examination turned into a dilemma. We had to get past that. Our battle was Sushma’s war.?

She won...

Under the Child Welfare Committee's guidance, Sushma has found a new place to call home. She will live in one of the better shelter homes in Gurgaon. She will attend school and learn life skills until she turns eighteen.

Looking back, I am grateful for a few things I learned along the way…

????????? Building contacts across spectrums

????????? Simply not looking the other way and asking friends if they need a partner in their ordeal

????????? Keeping calm and being able to draw a quick plan of action?

????????? Being consistent

????????? Never give up

????????? Power of Social Media?

Now, what can one absorb from our experience?

One little girl’s life has just begun. There could be such deserted young girls and boys in your neighborhood park or at the corner of the street. If you see them, perhaps you will restore them to dignity. And safety.

Here are the steps you could consider taking:

(Sourced from the internet)

Stay with the Child: Stay with the child to ensure immediate safety and comfort.

Contact Authorities: Call the local police or emergency services to report the situation and provide them with all the necessary information that you have about the child's location and condition.

Please Don't Leave the Area: Unless it's unsafe to remain in the area, try to stay with the child until help arrives. This can provide a sense of security for the child and ensure they are not left alone.

Avoid Disturbing Evidence: Refrain from touching or disturbing any potential evidence or belongings left with the child, as it may be necessary for the investigation.

Comfort the Child: If the child is distressed, do your best to provide comfort and reassurance without making any promises you can't keep.

Give Information to Authorities: When the authorities arrive, provide them with all the information about the circumstances in which you found the child. This could be crucial for their investigation.

Please do Not Take the Child in your custody: While your intentions may be good, taking the child into your custody with proper authorisation from the authorities is essential. Legal and child protection procedures need to be followed.

Cooperate with Authorities: Work closely with the authorities and provide any assistance they might require during their investigation.

Be Prepared to Give a Statement: You might be asked to state what you witnessed. Be truthful and provide accurate information.

Seek Professional Help: If you are emotionally affected by the situation, consider seeking support from a mental health professional or counsellor.

Remember, the safety and well-being of the child are of utmost importance. Always prioritise the child's welfare and cooperate with the appropriate authorities.

If you have read this far… Thank you.?

I hope you, too, have the opportunity to change a few things that need to change in our world.

Thank you

Naznin Prodhani

(Views and opinions shared in this blog are my own. These do not represent the views of ICRA Ltd)

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