Ministry says children are taken into state custody only when parents or family cannot ensure safety

The Ministry of Health, Family and Social Assistance on Tuesday stated that a child will be taken into state custody only in circumstances where the child’s parents or family are unable to ensure the child’s safety.

The ministry issued the statement following public criticism over the manner in which a newborn was placed under state care. The child’s mother has expressed concern, claiming in posts circulating on social media that the State removed her child because she has a disability and had previously attempted self-harm.

She further alleged that the ministry is attempting to place her child with another family without her consent.

Responding to the criticism, the ministry said children are taken into state custody strictly in accordance with the Child Rights Protection Act. The ministry noted that the State has a legal obligation to provide necessary protection to children, and that children have the right to receive special assistance and protection from their family, community and the State.

The ministry cited Article 8 of the Child Rights Protection Act, which requires that the best interests of the child be the primary consideration in all decisions concerning the child.

The ministry stressed that a child is taken into state care only when the child’s parents or family cannot guarantee the child’s safety. “In any case involving children, a child cannot be taken into state custody unless the child’s family is unable to ensure protection, and the circumstances surrounding the child have been assessed and taken into account,” the ministry said.

The ministry also clarified that a parent’s disability is not considered a valid reason for separating a child from their parent, unless such separation is determined to be in the best interests of the child.

However, the ministry said immediate action will be taken to provide care and protection if the safety of any child is not ensured. In such cases, the ministry has the discretion to remove the child from the environment, take the child into state custody, or place the child under the care of another person.

The ministry expressed concern over the circulation of inaccurate information regarding children and vulnerable individuals. It urged media outlets and social media users to exercise caution and refrain from spreading misinformation.