The Betangi Creche Centre under the Department of Social Welfare and Social Education, Govt of Tripura, has come under scrutiny as parents and residents alleged that children are facing a safety crisis due to the dilapidated condition of the centre. They raised serious concerns over its deteriorating infrastructure, lack of basic facilities and safety risks for children. The centre, which serves children of daily wage workers and labour families, allegedly lacks electricity, proper sanitation, safe accommodation and essential child care facilities.
At a Glance
- Location: Betangi Creche Centre, East Tilthai, Jubarajnagar Assembly constituency, Tripura
- Department: Tripura Department of Social Welfare and Social Education
- Children enrolled: Around 25 children reportedly attend the centre daily
- Major concerns: Damaged building, leaking roof, no electricity, poor sanitation and lack of security
- Staff strength: One worker and one helper reportedly manage the centre
- Parents’ demand: Immediate renovation, safety measures and improved child care facilities
Jubarajnagar (Tripura): A government-run child care centre at Jubarajnagar area in North Tripura has become a matter of concern for parents after allegations surfaced about unsafe infrastructure and inadequate facilities at the Betangi Creche Centre in East Tilthai.
The centre was established to provide a secure environment for children of working parents, especially those from daily wage and labour communities. However, parents and local residents now allege that the facility itself has become unsafe for the children it was meant to protect.
During a visit to the area, local residents pointed towards the deteriorating condition of the centre building and highlighted several issues affecting children’s daily lives. Parents said the present condition of the creche raises serious questions about child safety and the implementation of welfare objectives at the grassroots level.
Damaged roof, cracked walls create safety concerns
The physical condition of the centre remains the biggest concern, according to residents.
Parents alleged that the room where children spend their day has developed cracks on the walls, while plaster has fallen from several sections. The structure reportedly does not have a proper ceiling, and the tin roof has multiple damaged portions.
Residents from the locality said rainwater enters the room through the damaged roof, making it difficult for children to sit, eat or rest during rainy days.
The condition of the wooden beams supporting the roof has further increased anxiety among parents. Several wooden structures have reportedly weakened due to age and damage, creating fears that they may collapse and lead to an accident.
No electricity, children struggle in summer heat
The absence of electricity has emerged as another major issue.
Parents alleged that the centre does not have a power connection, leaving children without fans and adequate lighting. During the summer months, the tin-roofed structure becomes extremely hot, creating discomfort for small children who remain inside for several hours.
Local residents said children face difficult conditions during both summer and monsoon seasons — suffering from heat during dry weather and water leakage during rainfall.
Basic child care facilities remain inadequate
Parents also raised concerns over the lack of basic arrangements required for a child care centre.
According to local accounts, the facility does not have enough beds or proper sleeping arrangements. Many children reportedly spend their time sitting on the floor as the centre lacks suitable resting facilities.
The absence of a proper kitchen has also raised questions about hygienic food preparation. Residents claimed that the centre does not have adequate infrastructure to prepare meals in a safe and healthy manner.
The toilet facility is another area of concern. Parents alleged that children face difficulties accessing the toilet due to the lack of a proper pathway.
Safety risk due to open surroundings and vegetation
Security arrangements at the centre have also drawn criticism.
Residents said the area surrounding the creche remains covered with dense vegetation. They claimed that snakes and other potentially dangerous creatures are often found in the locality, creating the possibility of such animals entering the premises.
The absence of a boundary wall has added to the concern. With the centre surrounded by open areas, residents fear that small children may accidentally move outside without proper supervision.
Only two staff members manage around 25 children
The shortage of manpower has created additional pressure on the centre.
A worker at the facility informed that around 25 children from nearby villages attend the creche every day. Most of their parents work as daily wage labourers and leave home in the morning for work.
However, the centre currently has only one worker and one helper, making it challenging to manage children’s safety, care, feeding and daily activities effectively.
Parents said the purpose of the creche was to allow working families to earn their livelihood while ensuring that their children remained safe. But the present situation has forced many parents to worry about their children even while they are away at work.
Allegations over food supply
Parents have also raised questions over food supplies meant for children.
They alleged that although government allocations include food provisions for children, the full benefit does not reach them.
Parents demanded transparency regarding the supply and distribution of food materials and sought immediate steps to ensure that children receive their entitled nutrition.
Lack of play materials affects child development
Residents also highlighted the absence of play materials at the centre.
Experts and child care workers often emphasise that play activities support children’s learning, creativity and social development. However, parents alleged that Betangi Creche Centre lacks even basic recreational facilities for children.
Parents demand immediate government intervention
Parents and local residents have urged the authorities to conduct an immediate inspection of the centre and take corrective measures.
Their demands include:
- Repairing the damaged building
- Providing electricity connection
- Ensuring safe drinking water
- Improving kitchen and toilet facilities
- Constructing a boundary wall
- Increasing staff strength
- Ensuring proper food supply
- Providing play materials for children
The residents said a creche centre meant for protecting vulnerable children cannot function effectively without basic safety and care facilities.
They urged the Tripura government and the concerned department to take immediate action so that children from working families receive the secure and healthy environment promised under the welfare programme.