In a significant diplomatic exchange during his meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Ahmedabad, Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally brought up the heart-wrenching case of Baby Ariha Shah. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri revealed this development on Monday, shedding light on India’s persistent efforts to reunite an Indian child with her family in Germany.
Baby Ariha Shah, a toddler of Indian origin, has been in German foster care since September 2021. The child, born to Gujarati parents Dhara and Bhavesh Shah who moved to Germany in 2018 for work, suffered an accidental injury at seven months old while being fed by her grandmother. Hospital authorities suspected abuse, prompting the Jugendamt, Germany’s child welfare agency, to take her into custody.
Despite thorough investigations, including DNA tests, confirming no sexual abuse or criminal wrongdoing by the parents, the agency refused to return Ariha. They cited concerns over ‘violent behavior’ or negligence, leading a court to terminate the parents’ rights and place her in foster care.
India has been unrelenting in its advocacy. PM Modi highlighted the issue directly with Chancellor Merz, emphasizing humanitarian aspects over legal technicalities. Foreign Secretary Misri assured that New Delhi remains in constant touch with the family and German counterparts, prioritizing Ariha’s upbringing in an Indian cultural environment.
Efforts include facilitating interactions with the Indian community in Germany, celebrating Indian festivals, and even arranging Hindi lessons for the child. ‘We understand the family’s pain intimately and are doing everything possible,’ Misri stated, underscoring India’s commitment at every stage.
This case underscores broader tensions in international child custody disputes involving cultural preservation. India views Ariha’s linguistic, religious, and social development as paramount, arguing she belongs in her natural family milieu. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had previously raised it with German officials last year.
As bilateral talks between India and Germany strengthen, the Ariha Shah saga remains a poignant priority. Officials promise ongoing updates, with the government treating it with the same urgency as key bilateral issues. The family continues to fight legally, backed by India’s diplomatic heft, hoping for a resolution that honors both justice and heritage.