Udupi: A timely and courageous intervention by social worker Nityananda Olakadu saved an infant from a potentially life-threatening situation after the child was allegedly being physically mistreated by a couple under the influence of alcohol on Wednesday.
The incident took place near George Fernandes Road, which connects to Indrali railway station in Udupi city. The situation came to light when Shweta Poojary noticed the couple violently handling a crying and reportedly hungry infant. Alarmed by what she witnessed, she immediately alerted Olakadu.
Children rushed to hospital
Responding swiftly, Olakadu rushed to the spot and arranged for an ambulance. He transported the infant and a toddler, who was also present at the scene, to Udupi Mother and Child Hospital for urgent medical attention.
Hospital sources said the children were in a critical condition at the time of admission and required immediate treatment. Doctors examined the children and initiated necessary medical care to stabilise them.
“The children were brought in at the right time. Prompt intervention helped prevent further harm,” a hospital official said.
Authorities informed, legal process initiated
Following the rescue, details of the incident were reported to the City Women’s Police Station, the Sakhi Centre and the Child Helpline. Officials from these agencies visited the hospital to assess the condition of the children and to initiate legal and protective measures.
After completing due procedures, the children were placed under the care of the Udupi District Child Protection Unit to ensure their safety and welfare.
Subsequently, in accordance with directions issued by the Children’s Welfare Committee in Doddanagudde, the infant was handed over to the Krishna Anugraha Adoption Centre in Lakshminagar for further care.
Mother rehabilitated, father absconds
The child’s mother has been provided rehabilitation support at the State Women’s Shelter in Nittur. Authorities said she would receive counselling and necessary assistance as part of the rehabilitation process.
The father reportedly fled the scene when the situation escalated and has not yet been traced. Police are likely to take further action based on medical reports and statements collected during the inquiry.
The couple has been identified as Shobha and Raju, natives of Kolhapur in Maharashtra.
Previous incident under scrutiny
Reports indicate that just five days prior to the latest incident, the elder sibling of the rescued infant had been admitted to Byndoor Government Hospital. There are allegations that the father had attempted to assault the child during that episode as well.
Authorities are examining these earlier allegations as part of the ongoing inquiry to determine whether there was a pattern of abuse or neglect.
Coordinated rescue effort
The operation involved personnel from the City Women’s Police Station, Ramya Vidya of the Child Protection Unit, and staff from the Sakhi Centre. Their coordinated efforts ensured that the children were removed from immediate danger and placed in protective custody.
Officials emphasised the importance of public vigilance in preventing child abuse. They urged citizens to promptly report any suspicious or harmful behaviour involving children to the police or Child Helpline so that timely intervention can be made.
The incident has once again highlighted the critical role of community members and frontline social workers in safeguarding vulnerable children. Further investigation is underway to determine appropriate legal action against those responsible.