Sri Vijaya Puram, Apr 21: Rayhaan Pasha, President of the Nicobar Youth Association, has written to the Chief Secretary of the Andaman & Nicobar Administration with a respectful request: to give legal recognition to traditional adoption practices followed in the Nicobar Islands. His appeal is about bringing together the rich customs of the Nicobarese people with modern legal systems, for the benefit of tribal children and families.
For many generations, Nicobarese families have lovingly adopted children from within their communities, especially during times of loss or hardship. These children grow up with love, care, and full acceptance, becoming a real part of their new families.
Although these adoptions are fully accepted in tribal society, the law does not officially recognize them. This creates problems for the children when it comes to getting documents, school admissions, or accessing government welfare schemes.
He also extended his sincere appreciation to the A & N Administration for its ongoing efforts in supporting tribal communities and remote island populations, expressing hope that this heartfelt request will be met with the compassion and urgency it deserves.
In his letter, Pasha has requested the concern department, under the leadership of the Chief Secretary, to take necessary steps to legally recognize traditional Nicobarese adoptions — a move he describes as essential to protect the dignity and future of these tribal children. The plea is not just a policy recommendation; it is a reflection of the soul of Nicobari tribal society — a community where no child is abandoned, and no home refuses love.
The Nicobar Youth Association believes that this step will show how the government and tribal communities can work hand-in-hand — respecting traditions, protecting tribal children, and building a more inclusive future for the tribal community of the islands.
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