In a major step towards supporting minor rape victims, the Uttarakhand government will take full responsibility for the care and rehabilitation of those who become pregnant due to assault. Each victim will receive a monthly nutritional allowance of ₹4,000 until she turns 23 years old. Additionally, the government will provide medical care, legal aid, housing, education, and skill development to help her become self-reliant by the end of the support period.
A budget of ₹10 lakh per district has been allocated under this scheme. As of now, 72 minor girls in the state have become mothers due to rape. In the current financial year, funds of ₹1 lakh each have already been released for three districts. Director of Women and Child Welfare, Prashant Arya, stated that this comprehensive programme falls under a 100% centrally funded scheme aimed at offering integrated assistance to pregnant victims.
Support services include counselling, mental health aid, secure transport, legal support, medical treatment, long-term rehabilitation, and infant care. An additional one-time aid of ₹6,000 may also be given based on the Child Welfare Committee’s recommendation.
Deputy Chief Probation Officer Anjana Gupta added that if the victim gives birth, the child can be cared for by the Specialised Adoption Agency (SAA) until age six or up to 18 if required. If the victim opts not to keep the child, the newborn can be handed over to a state shelter. The District Child Protection Unit will facilitate Aadhaar registration and issue a birth certificate through the competent authority for both mother and child.
