Decision pending on release of injured child: Social investigation report awaited

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A decision will be made after receiving the Social Investigation Report (SIR) on the application submitted by the child's biological father to the Child Welfare Committee, requesting the release of the seven-year-old boy who was injured in the brutal beating by his stepfather. CWC Chairperson Shaniba Beegam stated that steps have been taken for this purpose.

The father left his wife, Anjana and their child three and a half years ago. Anjana and Anu got married after obtaining a court-ordered divorce. In the divorce judgment, the court granted custody of the child to the second defendant in the case, Anjana. Therefore, even if the SIR is favorable, court permission is required to hand over the child to the father.

The SIR assesses whether the child can be adequately protected if placed in the care of the biological father. The CWC will make a decision after receiving a report prepared on various issues such as the father's current residence, financial status, employment and other personal matters. Currently, the child, under the care of Pujapura Govt. Children's Home, has been admitted to SAT Hospital for expert examination.

After completing a comprehensive report on the child's health condition, the child will be discharged today. Doctors have confirmed that the child is healthy. The child will remain in the children's home until a decision is made on the father's application. If the father is unable to take custody of the child, they will be kept in a children's home until they reach the age of 18. Shanibabigam stated that if no guardian comes forward by then, arrangements can be made for protection under the Social Justice Department until the age of 23.

Regarding the accused, stepfather Anu and mother Anjana, who are in custody for the alleged torture of the seven-year-old boy for almost a year, will have their custody extended until the 29th. The extension was necessary due to the election rush, which impeded evidence gathering. The request of the biological father to meet the child has been accommodated.