Thousands of vulnerable youngsters struggle to rebuild their lives after leaving a childcare institution because the Juvenile Justice Act (JJ Act) stipulates that they must leave when they reach the age of 18.

We know that normal children living with their families still find it extremely challenging to start sustaining themselves at this age. They require a few additional years before they become financially independent, based on the job market and other socio-economic markers.

Can you, then, imagine the fate of children with intellectual disabilities (ID)? These children usually have a very late start in life and are ill equipped to fend for themselves by this age. If normal children can face rehabilitation challenges, what must it be like for late starters?

The Law was drafted keeping the normal orphan in mind. It does not cover the requirements of an orphan with ID. An abandoned child with ID is extremely vulnerable, likely to be coerced into malpractice once outside safe walls, unprotected and unsupervised.

Childcare orphans, surrendered children, and children who are survivors of abuse, violence and trafficking are entitled to “aftercare” on turning 18— i.e. they are to receive support for independent living and community integration, as mandated by the JJ Act Rules of 2016 and the Child Protection Scheme. Such young adults are the state’s responsibility until they turn 21 and, in exceptional circumstances, for two further years. But, what of the fate of the 23 year old with the mind of a 7 year old? How does the Law protect them? It doesn’t.

Determining the accurate mental age of a child is crucial especially when there is a gap between the biological and mental ages. Intellectually disabled persons are children locked in an adult body. Hence, the Law’s definition of an adult (commencing at 18 years) does not hold good for children with ID.

We believe in the constitutional obligation to a defenceless child. Our 20-year experience in this field gives us perfect standing as guardian and defender of these children. Although it is mandatory for all childcare institutes to be registered under the JJ Act that gives children the right to aftercare as well, a large number of childcare institutes are not registered. Having received due recognition to run aftercare facilities for abandoned children with ID…

Sri Arunodayam is building a NEW, DEDICATED AFTERCARE-CUM-REHABILITATION HOME for young adults with ID, to equip them for survival within their local communities. In addition to receiving food, clothing and shelter, they will be taught skills to sustain a trade and receive mentoring and mental health support that is crucial for them as young adults.

This is a huge project and we cannot make it without your help! There is much to do commencing with building a fully equipped aftercare-cum-rehabilitation home, and on boarding highly skilled human resources such as caregivers, nurses, mental health experts, vocational trainers, and other professionals.