New Delhi: During the visit of German Chancellor Friedrich Merz to India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally raised the issue of Baby Ariha Shah, an Indian child currently in foster care in Germany. The briefing was provided by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, who emphasized India’s ongoing commitment to the child’s welfare and cultural upbringing.
Who is Baby Ariha Shah?
Baby Ariha Shah, born in September 2021, is an Indian child currently under the custody of Germany’s Youth Welfare Office (Jugendamt). She was seven months old when an accidental injury occurred while in the care of her grandmother. Medical authorities suspected possible abuse, prompting intervention by German child protection authorities. Ariha has since been placed in foster care.
Her parents, Dhara Shah and Bhavesh Shah, originally from Gujarat, India, had moved to Germany in 2018 for work. Investigations by German authorities, including DNA and medical tests, confirmed that the child had not suffered sexual abuse. However, concerns regarding “care and supervision” led to the child being placed in foster care, and parental rights were temporarily suspended.
India’s Position
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated that India has been actively engaging with the German government, relevant agencies in Berlin, and the German Embassy in Delhi to ensure Ariha’s well-being. “While this was once a legal matter, it should ultimately be resolved with consideration of the humanitarian aspects involved,” Misri said.
India is striving to ensure that Ariha’s upbringing remains connected to her Indian roots, including interactions with the Indian community and participation in Indian festivals in Germany. Efforts are also underway to facilitate learning of Hindi and maintaining cultural ties.
PM Modi’s Intervention
During the India visit of Chancellor Merz, PM Modi personally raised the matter, reaffirming India’s commitment to follow up with German authorities at every stage and maintaining contact with the child’s family. Misri highlighted that India is working diligently to ensure that Ariha grows up in an environment that preserves her cultural, linguistic, and social identity.
Legal Background
After the child’s hospitalization, German authorities took her into custody. While initial investigations closed criminal cases against the parents in early 2022, the foster care placement continued based on alleged “care and supervision” concerns. India has been advocating for a solution that respects both legal procedures and the child’s connection to her Indian heritage.
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