Rights of children in islam and Contemporary Scenario

In recent times, worldwide there has been much hype about female infanticide, child labor, fatherless children, juvenile delinquency, poor access to education, malnutrition, AIDS in children, immunization against killer diseases and so on. These problems coupled with the disintegration of family institution and torn social fabric have lead to poor child-parent relationships ranging from child neglect to parent discard forcing the cordial atmosphere of family to evaporate and polarize into boarding schools and old-age homes particularly in so called progressive liberal developed societies. The gravity of situation genuinely and understandably attracted the attention of individuals and institutions leading to a huge input of suggestions and solutions to local and global problems. United Nations through its different wings particularly Human Rights and UNICEF took the lead in mitigating the problems faced by children with variable results.

Islam guarantees not only the rights of children but imposes certain duties towards their parents, fellows, living and nonliving environment around and towards almighty Allah not only for peace and prosperity of this universe but an everlasting peace of the afterlife. It is interesting to note and explore that the roots of an ideal and humane behavior of youth lie deeply embedded in the quality of care provided to him/her as neonate, infant and child. We can't and shouldn't expect more from them, than we have provided them with, while young. In this paper the researcher intends to look at the contemporary problems faced by children and parents and suggest solutions inferred from Quranic injunctions and the practical model provided by the prophet of Islam (saas) long back in 7^th century CE. It would be useful and interesting to bring forth the importance of following Islamic guidelines for the achievement of targeted goals regarding problems faced by children in different spheres. The paper thus highlights the importance of following Islamic guidelines for achievement of benefits much higher than the expected few. The researcher will further argue that world bodies and organizations can make laws and recommendations only while the moral and ethical values that can really change the scenario emanate only from religious education in form of practical models played by parents and family.