Blurb
The program, organized by multiple child protection bodies, revealed POCSO cases often involve family or acquaintances, emphasizing that ensuring child safety must start within the home
CHITRADURGA
Cases of sexual abuse against children are rising at an alarming rate, and in nearly seventy to ninety percent of cases, the accused are people known to the child, said Dr. K.T. Thippeswamy, member of the Karnataka State Child Rights Protection Commission.
He spoke while inaugurating a one-day training program on child rights and protection laws for officers and staff of child care institutions, held at the District Bala Bhavan auditorium in the city.
The program was jointly organized by the State Child Rights Protection Commission, Child Protection Directorate, Zilla Panchayat, Women and Child Development Department, and the District Child Protection Unit.
Analyzing cases registered under the POCSO Act, Dr. Thippeswamy said investigations revealed that fathers, elder brothers, relatives, teachers, friends, and neighbors were often involved, stressing that child safety must begin within the home.
He referred to a recent incident in north India, where three children died by suicide due to addiction to online games, and urged parents to carefully monitor mobile phone and internet usage.
The mental condition of children placed in foster care because of parental disputes is extremely sensitive, he said, adding that such children need emotional care along with legal protection.
Tumkur Child Welfare Committee member Dr. S.P. Tavikumar said working in child protection is not just a duty, but a meaningful service that supports vulnerable lives.
He said the satisfaction gained from this work cannot be found elsewhere, and called for commitment and compassion among officers.
The program was attended by officials including Deputy Director K.H. Vijayakumar, Women and Child Development Officer Gangappa, District Narrator D. Manjunath, committee members Jagadish, Ranganath, and staff.
