NOTE
During the last few months the Secretary of State for India has addressed official inquiries to the Government of India regarding the dedication of children to Hindu gods, and the measures necessary for the protection of such children.
If the anticipated change in the law is to result in more than a Bill on paper—a blind, behind which things will go on as before only more out of sight—it is, we believe, needful to ensure:
1st. Protection for all children found to be in moral danger, whether or not they are or may be dedicated to gods.
2nd. That, irrespective of nationality or religion, whoever has worked for and won the deliverance of the child should be allowed to act as guardian to it.
3rd. That such a Bill shall be most thoroughly enforced.
February, 1912.
To face p. 268.