Improve the conditions of orphanages

Orphaned children are already destitute, having lost one or both parents and, without a place to stay with relatives, they are placed in orphanages. It is deeply unfortunate if, even in orphanages, they do not receive proper care and live in miserable conditions.

Recent reports in the media reveal that most of the children in orphanages across the country are growing up in unhealthy physical conditions, neglected, and in deprived environments. They live their lives within confined spaces, and often, even basic needs such as proper food are not met. As a result, they suffer from malnutrition. The majority of these children are underweight and stunted than their age.

In 55 orphanages across remote areas, including Khulna city, children are growing up without the minimum necessities of nutritious food, clothing, shelter, healthcare, and quality education. They are spending their days in severe neglect and deprivation. In many orphanages, children are kept in dark and unhygienic conditions, packed together. They are given less than an hour of playtime in the evening, and for the remaining 23 hours, they live within a strict routine. As a result, their natural talents are not developing.

Such information does not even require an on-the-ground investigation. A simple observation of any nearby orphanage will reveal the same heartbreaking picture. The situation in most orphanages across the country is similar. The reason for this is that orphanages rely on social donations. Many madrasa-based educational institutions also operate similarly under the name of "Lillah Boarding." Ninety-five percent of Qawmi madrasas have Lillah Boarding. In these places, orphans live alongside the destitute. There are so many Lillah Boardings and orphanages in the country that it is beyond count. The government is unaware of the total number of orphanages outside of the Directorate of Social Services. No authorization is required to open such orphanages. Although they are meant for social service, many people open these orphanages or Lillah Boardings with an aim to personal gain, in the name of their parents, or for spiritual rewards. Many madrasas, Lillah Boardings, or orphanages send children to collect donations from house to house. Despite witnessing the dire conditions of the children in these orphanages, many do not speak out. They say, "At least they are alive, that's the main thing." But what kind of inhumane life is this?

These children are virtually deprived of any human dignity. The government has no plans for them. They grow up in orphanages somehow and then manage to survive in various ways once they grow up. This results in a massive waste of human resources. By not taking responsibility for these children, the government itself is negligent. We demand that a modern policy framework be created for the operation of orphanages. This framework should specify everything, including the accommodation, food, education, and other curricula for the children. Only after ensuring these conditions should the institution be allowed to operate. Along with ensuring transparency and accountability in the management of orphanages, there must also be a system for public-private participation and monitoring. Children in orphanages must be raised with the love and care of a family. They should never be deprived of affection and tenderness. Without human qualities, religious knowledge will eventually become ineffective. Therefore, it is crucial that both the government and private sectors pay attention to this issue.