As Ariha turns three, mother Dhara Shah appeals to PM to intervene

As Ariha Shah, the Indian child taken into parental custody by German Youth Services in 2021 turned three years old, her mother Dhara Shah made another plea to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene in the matter, alleging that German authorities were making no attempt to introduce her to Indian culture. Ms. Shah, who was allowed to visit her daughter under supervision last week, says that despite the Ministry of External Affairs’ request that German Youth Services or Jugendamt ensure the child is brought up culturally “as an Indian”, Ariha speaks only German and is not being taught English or any other Indian language. When asked, sources said that the MEA remains in “constant engagement” with the German authorities on the matter, and are “working on a road map” to teach the child Indian languages. The sources said that due to the MEA’s efforts German Authorities have granted Indian diplomats consular access on periodic basis in addition to the visitation granted to the parents, and Indian mission officials have handed over “resource materials” on Indian festivals and customs to help her remain in touch with her faith and culture.