At just seven months old, Ariha Shah was taken away from her parents’ care in Germany. Four years later, the case has become a diplomatic issue, with India formally demanding her return and raising concerns over her upbringing and cultural roots.
The matter recently came back into focus during high-level talks between India and Germany, after activists urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene.
How Ariha Shah Was Taken Into Foster Care
On 23 September 2021, German authorities removed Ariha Shah from her parents’ custody after noticing injuries on her body. Officials flagged possible child welfare concerns and placed the infant in foster care while an investigation was launched against her parents.
At the time, the move was described by German authorities as a protective measure taken in the child’s best interest.
Charges Dropped, But Custody Not Restored
In February 2022, German police closed the investigation against Ariha’s parents without filing any criminal charges. Despite this, a German court ruled that Ariha should continue to remain in foster care, stating that it was in her welfare to do so.
The decision triggered distress among her family and sparked questions about why custody was not restored even after the allegations were dropped.
Parents and Activists Seek Her Return
Between 2023 and 2025, Ariha’s parents repeatedly sought her return through legal and diplomatic channels. Activists in India and Germany launched the “Save Ariha” campaign, expressing concern that the child was growing up disconnected from her Indian cultural and religious roots.
The Indian government also began raising the issue with German authorities during diplomatic engagements.
Diplomatic Push During Modi–Merz Meeting
In January 2026, the case gained renewed attention as German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Gujarat for an official visit. Activists appealed to Modi to take up Ariha’s case as a humanitarian issue.
During meetings held between 12 and 13 January, Modi formally raised the matter with Merz. According to official statements, Modi pressed for a swift resolution and stressed the importance of Ariha being raised in an Indian cultural environment.
Where the Case Stands Now
As of now, India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri has confirmed that the issue has reached the highest diplomatic level. However, German authorities have not agreed to send Ariha back to India or place her with an Indian foster family.
Ariha continues to live with a foster family in Germany, while her parents, activists, and the Indian government continue to press for her repatriation to India.
The case remains unresolved.
