Child protection bureau takes 16 children into custody from Multan orphanage

The Punjab Child Protection and Welfare Bureau has taken 16 children from an orphanage in Multan into protective custody, citing the need to ensure their safety and proper care.

The children were moved to the bureau’s Multan centre on Wednesday following directions from its chairperson, Sarah Ahmed. The action comes after a recent incident in the city involving a 15-year-old boy who was allegedly run over by his employer following a workplace dispute.

Sarah said the orphanage was registered with the Punjab Charity Commission, but its application for registration with the bureau had been rejected.

She added that the bureau had asked the charity commission to review the orphanage’s registration and take action in accordance with the law. It had also approached the relevant authorities, seeking police action against the facility.

The bureau said it would work with relevant institutions to ensure that shelter homes comply with standard operating procedures. It has also issued a list of registered shelter homes.