Thiruvananthapuram: Minister for Health, Social Justice and Woman and Child Development K K Shailaja dismissed allegations that the women and children’s homes (Nirbhaya homes) in the state are shutting down.

The inmates of the Nirbhaya shelter homes are only being shifted. The new model shelter home in Thrissur can accommodate 200 inmates. This was set up in order to arrange facilities for the children who want to continue studies staying in the shelter homes, the minister stated.

Currently, Nirbhaya homes are functioning under NGOs. There are about 350 inmates there. As these buildings are located in crowded areas, the children are likely to be traced by the accused and attempts are made to influence them. So, they are compelled to stay indoors all the time.

Inmates of different categories such as adults, children and mentally challenged are staying in a single room. The Women and Child Development department aims to relocate them safely and scientifically. The shelter home at Thrissur was built at a cost of Rs 5 crore as directed by the experts.

The children aged above 16 years will be shifted to Thejomaya homes and will be provided job training to live independently. After this, only a limited number of inmates will be present in the Nirbhaya homes.

The shelter home in Thrissur offers facilities to stay for a longer period and pursue studies. Psycho-social counsellors and matrons can reach there any time for providing help. Also, service of doctors and psychiatrists will be available there.

With this, the children will get better education, treatment, counselling and vocational training. Thejomaya home is for those aged above 16 years, SOS for those below 12 years, Thrissur shelter home for students. Apart from this, a POCSO rehabilitation scheme as per NIMHANS protocol has been approved and this is the first of its kind in India, the minister added.