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% 08.09.2022

1. This hearing has been done through hybrid mode.

2. Pursuant to the previous order dated 25th July, 2022, Sh. Jagannath Pati, Director, CARA has joined the hearing through virtual mode. Mr. Pati has given an update to the Court in respect of the status of the Adoption Support Letters of the Petitioners in the present three cases, as also, generally. He has made the following submissions:

(i) The toll-free helpline number, which was made available on CARA's website in terms of the directions issued by this Court vide previous orders, is fully functional between 8:00 am to 8:00 pm. The said helpline is manned by the employees of CARA in two shifts. Mr. Pati has also assured the Court that the said employees, who are manning the helpline, would be given adequate training as to the queries raised by callers, so as to assist them in a helpful, cooperative and comprehensive manner.

(iii) As regards the request for Adoption Support Letters, prior to the new Adoption (Amendment) Regulations, 2021 which came into effect on 17th September, 2021, he submits that there were a total of 61 cases which were filed with CARA. Out of the said 61 cases, 56 cases were transmitted to the concerned District Magistrates. The responses thereto have been received in 44 cases, and in 25 cases, the Adoption Support Letters have already been issued. The remaining cases are also in progress and would be resolved at the earliest.

(iv) Insofar as the cases filed with CARA post 17th September, 2021 are concerned, the Adoption Support Letters can be issued in terms of the Adoption (Amendment) Regulations, 2021 which have already been prescribed by CARA, and the parents have to commence the process for obtaining the consent letters from the receiving countries. Such cases are being processed, in accordance with law.