Dimapur, 2 March: The Deputy Commissioner of Dimapur, Dr Tinojongshi Chang, NCS, has issued an order directing strict compliance with Sections 80 and 81 of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, in all matters relating to adoption.
The order stated that instances of non-compliance with the statutory provisions governing adoption under the Act have been reported in certain quarters. It reiterated that no child shall be offered or given for adoption except in accordance with the provisions of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, and the Adoption Regulations framed thereunder.
As per Section 80 of the Act, any violation of adoption procedures is punishable with imprisonment of up to three years or a fine of up to Rs 1,00,000, or both. Section 81 further prescribes punishment for the sale and procurement of children for any purpose, including illegal adoption, and makes such offences punishable under the law.
In this regard, all hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, maternity centres, Child Care Institutions, non-governmental organisations and other related establishments have been directed to ensure that no child is handed over, offered, received or facilitated for adoption, whether on payment or otherwise, except strictly in accordance with the provisions of the Act and the Adoption Regulations issued by the Central Adoption Resource Authority.
The order further emphasised that no individual, medical practitioner, staff member or institution shall directly or indirectly arrange, negotiate or facilitate adoption outside the legally prescribed procedure.
It also directed that any case involving a child in need of care and protection must be immediately reported to the concerned Child Welfare Committee and dealt with in accordance with the law.