Ministry Races to Bring Back Toddler from German Foster Care

The Ministry of External Affairs is working on the expedited return of a three-and-a-half-year-old girl from Germany, where she has been in foster care for 36 months following abuse allegations. Local MP Naresh Mhaske and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar are coordinating efforts, emphasizing the importance of her socio-cultural upbringing in India.

The Ministry of External Affairs is taking swift action to facilitate the return of a three-and-a-half-year-old girl from Germany's foster care system. The girl, Ariha, has been in foster care for 36 months due to allegations of minor physical abuse.

Local MP Naresh Mhaske stated that External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is expediting legal procedures to secure the child's return. Ariha's parents, Bhavesh and Dhara Shah from Thane district, can now meet their daughter twice monthly following court orders, a decision influenced by Indian diplomatic intervention.

Jaishankar emphasized that Ariha's long-term welfare is best served by her upbringing in India. The Ministry is also working to familiarize her with Indian cultural and religious traditions. The Government remains committed to Ariha's repatriation efforts, ensuring consular access and cultural exposure while legal proceedings continue.

(With inputs from agencies.)