Delhi’s Streets Were Their Childhood, But Not Their Destiny: Two Sisters Finding Their Own Way

Raised on Old Delhi’s Yamuna Bazar, sisters Seema and Neha were pushed into inhalant abuse; shelter homes and NGOs helped Seema pursue education and work, while Neha relapsed into substance use and depression. Their mother Shobha survives selling small goods. Reports and advocates highlight systemic childcare gaps, staff shortages and delayed rehabilitation despite new aftercare schemes pending implementation.