The Chandigarh Social Welfare Committee, led by former MP Satya Pal Jain, convened a meeting on Saturday to address the issue of missing children in the city. Out of the children who have gone missing in Chandigarh, 51 remain unaccounted for, while the others have been found. In an effort to understand the causes behind these disappearances, the committee has requested detailed information from the police regarding the 51 missing children and their families. Committee members plan to meet with these families to gather more information and gain insight into the issue.
In addition to addressing missing children cases, the committee also took steps to address the challenges faced by the transgender community in Chandigarh. Two representatives from the transgender community were present at the meeting, during which the committee decided to hold a separate meeting to discuss and resolve the concerns of this marginalized group. The city is home to approximately 140 transgender individuals.
The committee also discussed the shortage of manpower in the UT health department, hindering its ability to operate Outpatient Departments (OPDs) at dispensaries during the night. The department highlighted the urgent need for additional staff to alleviate this issue.
Responding to a suggestion from the committee, the administration identified 1.2 acres of land in Sector 34 to establish a new old age home. The proposed home is expected to accommodate 100 individuals, providing a safe and comfortable environment for the elderly. The architecture department has received and is reviewing a proposal for the project.
The committee also recommended that Mazdoor Bhawan, a facility for laborers, be located at Labour Chowk in Sector 44. This location is ideal as it is where thousands of laborers gather daily in search of employment opportunities.
The committee commended the administration for its efforts to raise awareness about the Shagun scheme. This scheme aims to support economically disadvantaged families by providing ₹31,000 as a Shagun payment upon their daughters’ marriages.
By addressing various social welfare issues, the Chandigarh Social Welfare Committee demonstrates its commitment to ensuring the well-being and safety of children, transgender individuals, and the elderly in the city. Through collaboration with relevant stakeholders and the implementation of targeted solutions, the committee is working towards creating a more inclusive and supportive society.
