Adoption just got easier for singles. According to the Juvenile Justice (Care & Protection of Children) Act, 2000, the court has stated to “allow an orphaned child to be given to a single parent for adoption within five months”. The statement has brought a smile on the faces of many singles in the city, who are now willing to opt for adoption.
Says Gunjan Kapur, a media professional, “This trend has surfaced in recent years, and not only for women but also for men, simply because they are financially independent now. I feel it’s just a change everyone should get used to instead of being shocked by independent women who wish to become single mothers. Since laws are open now, I might prefer adopting a child in the future.”
And the trend which was unheard of until a few years back, is now gaining steam. According to adoption agencies, after this statement by the court, queries for adoption from single parents have increased by 15-20 per cent.
Informs Neena Macedo, president of Delhi Council for Child Welfare (Palna), “We have at least 20-25 such applications coming to the agency every three months. Earlier, queries would come from people who were above 40, but now even young singletons or 20 somethings are willing to adopt. But as per our conditions, we have set the age of 35+ for adoption keeping strong family support and financial conditions of the applicant a pre-requisite.”
Neha Sharma, a law student says, “It’s good for women as many get married because they ultimately want to have children. Adoption laws are being simplified like in the West. As I enjoy my freedom, being single, I would love adopt a daughter.”