The absence of full-time counsellors at these children's institutions is in stark violation of the Juvenile Justice (Care and protection) Karnataka Rules 2011.
Under Section 32(7a) of the rules, the institution should “prepare and follow individual care plans for every child… specifically addressing the child's physical and mental health, and emotional needs.”
B. Madhukar, Senior Consultant Psychiatrist, St. Martha's Hospital, explains that without counselling, the children could develop anger and frustration as well as a feeling of helplessness.
“In some cases, the depression may become severe, causing them to run away or attempt suicide,” he said.
