Allegations have surfaced that children living in Dilkusha Home in Nausori have been subjected to verbal and physical abuse and neglect.
The Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission Director, Ashwin Raj says the complainant has also requested the Commission to investigate the manner in which the present management is running the orphanage, in particular, the use of food rations and other assistance given to the Home by the public and the state. Raj says the Commission has lodged an official complaint with the Fiji Police Force in relation to allegations of physical abuse and has also contacted the Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation and the Methodist Church who are managing the well-known Home.
He says these children are vulnerable and their safety is paramount.
He says they are now awaiting a response from the Ministry as well as the Methodist Church. Raj says the Commission is independently investigating the complaint and is also urging these institutions to intervene and act swiftly given that it involves children.
We have sent questions to Methodist Church of Fiji Secretary for Communications, Reverend Wilfred Regunamada and a response is expected this afternoon.
Police have confirmed an investigation is underway.
