Allahabad High Court Demands Immediate Action on Delayed Funding for Juvenile Homes in UP

The Allahabad High Court recently expressed strong disapproval towards the central and Uttar Pradesh governments for delaying the release of funds meant for juvenile homes operated by NGOs under the Mission Vatsalya scheme.

The court stressed that bureaucratic procedures cannot be prioritized over the essential rights of children to adequate living conditions, including food and medical care. The court threatened necessary legal orders unless a viable solution is submitted by May 29. This directive arose during a public interest litigation filed by Anoop Gupta, with the court particularly noting the two-month lapse since the new financial year without fund allocation to these homes.

The state government cited procedural challenges and the implementation of the new SNA Sparsh system as reasons for the delay. However, the court rejected these justifications as insensitive, insisting that the children's welfare is a constitutional duty. The high court ordered the central and state governments to collaborate on a solution and discuss interim financial support for the seven NGO-run homes in Uttar Pradesh by the specified date.

(With inputs from agencies.)