Abstract :
The problem of runaway children though seems very general as an issue but in fact is too complex to be analyzed because of the multitude of factors — social, economic, institutional and administrative — responsible for such phenomenon. The study conducted was mainly designed to understand the magnitude of the problem of children running away from homes as well as to bring to light the factors responsible for the incident and to get the responses of state institutions, communities and families towards these children. The methodology regarding the assessment of these mentioned aspects related to the situation was based on the diversified opinion on the issues of the key players. Children, their parents/guardians and neighbours, centers/NGOs working for the rights of children, orphanage houses, police officials, lawyers and judges were interviewed to get the required information. The study reveals that the highest number of runaway cases took place due to the punishment both at home and school and the next highest due to educational compulsion. Strict behaviour towards the child, loose supervision over the child and continuous punishment to the child have been quoted as major mistakes. The major improvements suggested can be presented as: the upbringing of the child be based on provision of good education, proper and systematic guidance, home supervision in a good and conflict-free atmosphere, attitude though strict but free of physical punishment.
