Karan’s Struggle Between Change and Street Influence

Karan Bajrang Madalkar, a 12-year-old boy from Gandhi Nagar slum in Pune, has been growing up in difficult circumstances following the death of his father due to a heart attack eight years ago. His mother, Pooja, is the sole breadwinner of the family and works long hours as a saleswoman in a saree showroom to support Karan and his sister, who studies in class 8.

With little supervision at home and constant exposure to substance use in the neighbourhood, Karan gradually developed the habit of smoking cigarettes and consuming gutka (mawa). He spent increasing amounts of time on the streets, often missing school and becoming vulnerable to negative peer influence.

Concerned about his behaviour and school absenteeism, Karan’s mother approached the school for help but received little support. During regular outreach in the community, SATHI’s street educators identified Karan and counselled both him and his mother. He was later enrolled in a de-addiction camp organised through the project.

The camp provided Karan with a structured environment where he learned about the harmful effects of substance use and participated in activities such as jogging, craft work, regular routines, and group sessions. The experience had a visible positive impact on him, and he stopped smoking after returning from the camp.

However, the influence of the street environment and peer pressure continued to affect him, and he resumed consuming gutka after some time. His mother remains deeply concerned and hopes he can be admitted to a residential Child Care Institution (CCI), where he can receive a more stable and supportive environment away from the risks of the streets.

Despite these challenges, Karan has begun expressing aspirations for his future and says he wants to become a cricketer. SATHI continues to work closely with him and his family through counselling, follow-up, and coordination with the Child Welfare Committee to explore long-term rehabilitation and educational support.

Karan’s journey reflects the complex realities faced by many vulnerable children living in urban slum communities, where poverty, lack of supervision, social discrimination, and unsafe surroundings make sustained recovery difficult. At the same time, his story also highlights the importance of continuous support, community outreach, and long-term rehabilitation efforts in helping children move towards safer and more hopeful futures.