Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala State Human Rights Commission has ordered a comprehensive enquiry into the functioning of orphanages and shelter homes for the poor and destitute in the state.

The order, issued by KSHRC chairman Justice J B Koshi, comes in the wake of increasing number of `Arabi Kalyanam` (marrying off Muslim girls to Arab nationals) from orphanages and reports of ill-treatment of inmates in orphanages and poor homes.

The probe would be conducted by DIG of Police S Sreejith, who heads KSRHC`s investigation wing. The investigation will examine whether the orphanages are registered and whether they are violating stipulated terms and conditions.

The fund collection of orphanages by authorities and its utilisation would also be investigated.

The Commission directed that the probe be conducted with the assistance of the government, police, child welfare institutions, local self government bodies, peoples` representatives and social activists.

The investigation team has been directed to submit its report within five months.

PTI