Ludhiana, August 20, 2025: Over three weeks after DNA tests were conducted on six rescued children and the adults accompanying them, the district administration is still awaiting the reports, which are expected by September. The tests were carried out to confirm parentage in cases where the accompanying adults could not provide clear documentation.
The rescue was conducted on July 20 under Project Jeevanjyot 2.0, during which 18 children were taken off the streets. While adults accompanying 12 children submitted credible claims of parentage, six cases required further verification. DNA samples were collected on July 23 to establish biological ties.
District child protection officer (DCPO) Rashmi Saini said some children have already been reunited with their families after proper verification. “These people hail from faraway states. They are taking time to bring documents, like birth certificates, to prove parentage,” she noted. Five of the 12 children have been handed back so far, while the rest await document clearance.
Officials said the rescued children are currently housed at the children’s home in Doraha until reports arrive. The draft of Project Jeevanjyot 2.0 outlines that if DNA tests confirm parentage, children will be restored to their families with counselling support to encourage school enrolment and discourage begging.
If tests do not match, the Child Welfare Committee will initiate action under relevant laws and work to trace biological parents through the ‘Track the Child’ portal. In such cases, children may also be declared legally free for adoption.
Forensic sciences laboratory (Kharar) director Dr. Rajnish said timelines for DNA results are not fixed. “We don’t have any such guidelines. Rules regarding it haven’t been framed yet,” he explained.
Deputy commissioner Himanshu Jain had earlier formed a committee to streamline the DNA testing process after initial delays. The panel includes the DCPO, police representatives, and the civil surgeon.
Officials said Project Jeevanjyot 2.0 is aimed at protecting children from exploitation and ensuring their rehabilitation through education and welfare measures.
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