Dimapur: Tinojongshi Chang on Monday directed strict compliance with Sections 80 and 81 of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 in all matters relating to adoption, warning of penal consequences for violations.
In an official order, the Deputy Commissioner noted that instances of non-compliance with statutory provisions governing adoption under the Act have been reported in certain quarters, necessitating renewed emphasis on adherence to due process.
The order reiterated that no child shall be offered or given for adoption except in accordance with the provisions of the Act and the Adoption Regulations framed thereunder.
As per Section 80 of the Act, any violation of prescribed adoption procedures is punishable with imprisonment of up to three years and a fine of up to Rs 1 lakh. Section 81 further provides for stringent punishment in cases involving the sale and procurement of children for any purpose, including illegal adoption.
The Deputy Commissioner directed all hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, maternity centres, child care institutions, non-governmental organisations and other related establishments 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 law and the Adoption Regulations issued by the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA).
The order also made it clear that no individual, medical practitioner, staff member or institution shall directly or indirectly arrange, negotiate or facilitate adoption outside the legally prescribed procedure.
Further, it stated 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.
The district administration cautioned that any deviation from the statutory provisions would invite legal action.