Two minor girls escape from shelter home in Berhampur, security under scanner

Two minor girls reportedly escaped from the Utkal Balashram in Berhampur on Saturday, raising fresh concerns over the security arrangements at the government-run shelter home. The incident came to light after the girls reportedly scaled the boundary wall of the institution and fled during the daytime.

According to reports, the two girls, aged 12 and 13, were among a group of children who had recently been rescued by police while they were engaged in begging. A total of nine children were rescued during the operation.

Rescued While Begging

Following their rescue, the children were produced before the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) for further action.

As per the directions of the committee, seven minor boys were sent to a correctional home, while the two girls were accommodated at the Utkal Balashram.

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The police had also arrested five parents in connection with the case, alleging that they had been running a begging racket and forcing the children into begging for several years.

Efforts On To Trace

However, just a day after being lodged at the Balashram, the two minor girls managed to escape by climbing over the back wall of the institution.

Following the incident, police launched an investigation and began examining CCTV footage to trace the girls and understand how the escape took place. Officials said efforts are underway to locate the minors.

The episode has once again raised serious questions about the security and monitoring systems at the government-run children’s home, especially as incidents of inmates escaping from the facility have reportedly occurred in the past.