Indian Government Intensifies Push to Bring Home Thane Child in German Foster Care, Cultural Ties Strengthened
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is intensifying efforts to facilitate the return of a three-and-a-half-year-old child from Thane, currently in foster care in Germany. The situation involves Ariha Shah, who was placed into foster care by German authorities in 2021 due to charges of minor physical assault.
Shiv Sena MP Naresh Mhaske highlighted the issue in Parliament, prompting an update from External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. The minister assured that the government is expediting legal proceedings to ensure Ariha’s homecoming. The case has drawn considerable attention due to the ongoing separation of Ariha from her parents, Bhavesh and Dhara Shah, who reside in Mira Bhayander, Thane. The parents have been granted visitation rights twice a month, with recent court decisions increasing the time allowed for these meetings.
In a letter dated August 16, Jaishankar noted that the German Youth Welfare Authorities chose not to appeal the court’s decision to allow visitation rights for the Shah family, influenced by diplomatic efforts from the Indian government. The Foreign Minister also revealed that he personally raised the issue with his German counterpart, emphasizing that bringing Ariha back to India would be in her best interest, ensuring her well-being in her socio-cultural environment.
Cultural Connection Initiatives for Ariha
In the meantime, MEA officials and the Indian Embassy in Berlin are working to maintain Ariha’s connection to her Indian cultural roots. Efforts include providing her foster family with resources on Jainism, Indian festivals, and other cultural traditions. Embassy officials have also taken Ariha to Indian temples, and plans are being made to introduce her to Gujarati or Hindi lessons to keep her connected to her heritage.
Jaishankar stated that consular access to Ariha has been regularly granted, allowing embassy officials to check on her well-being. The Foreign Minister reassured Mhaske that the government remains committed to bringing the child back to India, and that all necessary diplomatic measures are being taken.
He also urged that the sensitive nature of the case be handled with appropriate discretion, given that it involves a young child. Jaishankar’s assurance signals the Indian government’s ongoing determination to reunite Ariha with her family while addressing the diplomatic challenges involved in her return.
This case continues to highlight the complexities surrounding international foster care and child custody cases, with the Indian government pressing for a resolution that aligns with the child's cultural and familial ties.
