Protect our children

Addressing child abuse requires a holistic approach that punishes perpetrators and provides comprehensive support

The curtain has been drawn on a shocking revelation. Sahil’s ‘Cruel Numbers 2023’ report has pulled back the veil on a tragic saga that sees 11 innocent children being subject to sexual abuse every single day.

This is not just a statistic. It is the heart-wrenching tale of children, our future, being robbed of their innocence. It is disheartening that the perpetrators of these crimes are often trusted individuals — relatives, acquaintances and women abettors. This suggests that child abuse is not always a random or isolated incident but is often perpetrated by individuals who are known and trusted by the victim. This calls for greater awareness and vigilance within communities to prevent and address child abuse. The regional distribution of these cases highlights the geographical disparities in access to support and justice. In Punjab, where the majority of cases were reported, there is a clear need for targeted interventions and resources to protect children and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice. It must also be recognise that child abuse is often underreported due to fear, stigma and lack of knowledge about available support services. Therefore, raising awareness about the signs and consequences of child abuse, as well as the importance of reporting these crimes, is critical. At the same time, the legal framework must be strengthened to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions. This includes advocating for the harshest punishments for those found guilty of abusing children.

Addressing child abuse requires a holistic approach that not only punishes perpetrators but also provides comprehensive support services for survivors. This includes mental health support, legal assistance and access to education and vocational training to help survivors rebuild their lives. Serious commitment is needed to protect our children.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 5^th, 2024.

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