Surprise check at Kurnool children's home exposes staff, food lapses

A surprise inspection at Balasadanam, a children's home in Peddapadu near Kurnool, on Friday (August 28, 2026) has led to an inquiry after several lapses were flagged. The inspection, conducted by District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) secretary B. Leela Venkata Seshadri, was carried out on the directions of the National Legal Services Authority (NLSA) and Principal District Judge G. Kabardhi.

During the visit, the official found that most of the staff members were absent from their posts. The inspection also revealed inconsistencies in the distribution of food, particularly eggs. While kitchen staff gave conflicting accounts—one claiming eggs had already been served and another stating they were yet to be boiled—the children themselves told the official that they had not received eggs.

Beyond the food-related issues, the inspection highlighted concerns about child supervision and the overall environment. The official learned of instances where children were reportedly forced to withhold information and were reprimanded when they spoke out. The absence of a biometric attendance system and an adequate surveillance mechanism were also noted as significant shortcomings.

In response to these findings, the DLSA secretary has ordered an inquiry into the lapses and directed that appropriate action be taken against those responsible. He stressed the need to ensure the safety, welfare, and proper supervision of the children residing at the facility.