Section 2 of The Orphanages and other Charitable Homes (Supervision and Control) Act, 1960
In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires,--
- (a)"Board" means the Board of Control established under section 5;
- (b)"certificate" means the certificate of recognition granted under section 15;
- (c)"child" means a boy or girl who has not completed the age of eighteen years;
- (d)"home" means an institution, whether called an orphanage, a home for neglected women or children, a widows" home, or by any other name, maintained or intended to be maintained for the reception, care, protection and welfare of women or children;
- (e)"manager" means a member of the managing committee appointed as such by the committee under section 20;
- (f)"managing committee" means the committee of management referred to in section 20;
- (g)"recognised home" means a home in respect of which a certificate has been granted;
- (h)"prescribed" means prescribed by rules made under this Act;
- (i)"woman" means a female who has completed the age of eighteen years.
Summary
- The law strictly defines a "child" as any boy or girl who has not yet reached the age of eighteen years.
- A "woman" is defined legally as a female who has completed the age of eighteen years.
- A "home" covers any institution meant to receive, care for, protect, and support the welfare of women or children, regardless of whether it is called an orphanage or a widows' home.
- The term "Board" refers specifically to the Board of Control created under Section 5.
- A "recognised home" is an institution that has successfully obtained a formal certificate of recognition under Section 15.
- A "manager" is an individual appointed to that role by the managing committee, as outlined in Section 20.
Practical examples
FAQ
1. At what age is someone no longer considered a "child" under this law?
Once a boy or girl completes the age of eighteen years, they no longer fit the legal definition of a child and become an adult.
2. Does an institution have to be called an "orphanage" to be regulated?
No. The law covers widows' homes, homes for neglected women, or institutions going by any other name, as long as their main purpose is to care for women or children.
3. What is the difference between a normal home and a "recognised home"?
A recognized home is one that has been officially investigated and granted a certificate under Section 15.
Test yourself
Q1.Under Section 2 of The Orphanages and other Charitable Homes (Supervision and Control) Act, 1960, how is a "child" legally defined?
Q2.Section 2 of The Orphanages and other Charitable Homes (Supervision and Control) Act, 1960 defines a "recognised home" by cross-referencing Section 15. If a newly built orphanage is housing children but the Board has just refused to grant it a certificate under Section 15, what is its legal status?
Q3.Under Section 2 of The Orphanages and other Charitable Homes (Supervision and Control) Act, 1960, which individual perfectly fits the definition of a "manager" referencing Section 20?
Q4.Under Section 2 of The Orphanages and other Charitable Homes (Supervision and Control) Act, 1960, what is the exact requirement to be defined as a "woman"?