Alarming Rise In Sexual Crimes Against School Children In India: Call For Action

A 13-year-old girl was sexually assaulted in Krishnagiri district. In Maharashtra, LKG children faced similar assaults near Thane.

In Assam, a teacher showed pornographic films to a schoolgirl in class.

Besides this, nine girls were sexually harassed by a teacher in Sirumuga, Coimbatore. These incidents highlight the increasing sexual crimes against school children over the past week.

Child welfare activist Devaneyan shared insights with OneIndia Tamil on this issue.

He stated, "There are five forms of violence against children: physical, mental, sexual, neglect and technical. Among them is sexual violence. It can be said that it is a collection of all kinds of violence. But the real truth is that not only now, but since the beginning of sexual violence, 53 percent of children have been sexually assaulted According to the report, the POCSO Act was introduced in 2012 by people who are known to the children."

Devaneyan explained that many people only recognise rape as sexual violence.

However, the POCSO Act includes talking dirty, using double entendres, showing obscene pictures, and standing naked as forms of sexual violence. He emphasised that such violence doesn't happen overnight but gradually over time.

He also pointed out that patriarchal thinking contributes to this problem. Victims often don't get justice even if they speak out. Only 30 percent of incidents become cases; the rest are suppressed due to societal pressures like marriage prospects and fear of public shame.

The activist highlighted that from a 2-year-old child to an 80-year-old woman, no one is spared from sexual assault. He questioned societal norms that blame victims for their attire while ignoring the perpetrator's actions. He stressed that both men and women are equal before the law.

In states like Tamil Nadu, there has been an increase in reported cases of sexual assault. In contrast, northern states report fewer cases. While more registered cases are welcome, it's crucial to see how many lead to convictions. Out of 4,500 reported cases, only 16 percent resulted in convictions.

Need for Education and Awareness

Devaneyan mentioned that children from socially disadvantaged backgrounds are most affected by sexual violence. Often, adults trust other adults over their own children, making it difficult for kids to speak out.

He noted that it's natural for children to develop sexual attraction during puberty but stressed the need for proper education on this topic.

He argued that value-based education on gender justice and equality should be imparted in schools. Children should learn about safe and unsafe touch and how to report unprotected touching immediately.

Strengthening Policies and Institutions

To ensure child safety at the village level, local organisations should be strengthened. Schools should develop and implement child safety policies. Everyone in schools, from principals to staff, should know their roles in preventing sexual violence.

If such incidents occur in schools, the concerned teacher should be dismissed under Decree No. 121-2012 and have their certificate revoked to prevent them from working elsewhere. Schools should also have a child safety box for complaints and take action on received complaints.

Implementation of POCSO Act

The implementation of the POCSO Act should be closely monitored. Currently, only 16 out of 38 districts in Tamil Nadu have POCSO special courts. Establishing these courts in all districts would expedite trials and help victims get justice faster.

The State Child Rights Organisation monitors POCSO cases at the state level but has been inactive for three years. Strengthening this organisation with a strong leader, appointing members, and allocating funds is essential.

Devaneyan concluded by saying that spending on children should be viewed as an investment rather than an expense to foster a friendly society for them.