CUTTACK: The Odisha State Legal Services Authority (OSLSA) has asked chairpersons of all District Legal Services Authorities (DLSAs) to ensure care, protection and well-being of children in child care institutions (CCIs) in their districts during the second wave of Covid-19 pandemic.
The OSLSA issued the circular following media reports indicating an increasing number of Covid-19 positive cases in CCIs of the state. The number of children infected had reportedly gone up to 200 in CCIs in the recent past.
On April 3, 2020, the Supreme Court suo motu registered a petition and issued a series of directions to prevent spread of Covid-19 in CCIs.
“It is felt that the interest of children should be looked into,” said OSLSA member secretary Bidyut Kumar Mishra, while explaining the reason behind the May 25, 2021, order.
The Supreme Court directed CCIs to conduct regular screening of children to confirm if someone has Covid-19 and follow a health referral system if children or staff are unwell. In case of symptoms, the CCI should have a quarantine/ segregated section (where possible) and make arrangements where a quarantine facility is not possible.
The CCIs were expected to plan in advance for emergency situations and refer to a health facility depending on the situation after obtaining necessary orders from the concerned child welfare committee or juvenile justice board, or children’s court. The CCIs were also expected to share information about such procedures with staff, parents and children.
