Increase in child sexual abuse cases leaves Bengaluru parents fretting
Synopsis
Child sexual abuse cases have doubled in Bengaluru. It has now become a source of major of worry for working parents. Some even have quit jobs to ensure they are there for their kids.
According to Narmada, Project Director, Integrated Child Protection Scheme, Karnataka, the reporting of the child sexual crime is on the higher side year after year.
"Both metro cities and also rural places are witnessing more number of such cases and hence it is a concern for parents," she said.
Kripa Alva, Chairperson, Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights says, forget school girls, these days even less than five-year-old child are not spared.
MI Chowdry, a businessman says, after seeing such disturbing reports about child sex abuse, he is fearing for his 12-year-old daughter's safety.
"My wife and I have to work, and we are scared for her. We keep calling the school at least once before she leaves. I don't mind taking trouble to leave my business for a while but I pick and drop her at home and tell her to open the door only after her mother arrives from work," he said.
Aravind, a resident from Jayanagar says, after hearing stories about children being harassed at schools, he makes it a point to meet his 10-year-old daughter's class teacher and enquire about the child and his behaviour almost everyday.
Some parents even have quit jobs and are self-employed now.
"I do henna design and I also stitch clothes, this is an additional income for my family. And my husband, who is an electrical contractor can work peacefully and come home as I keep an eye on my daughter," she said.
Kushi Kushalappa, Coordinator, Enfold, a NGO that works with schools and parents to handle and curb child sex abuse says that parents can easily know if a child is being abused.
"The child will try and reach parents to tell them about abuse or there will be some indicators which parents should observe, and if parents keep themselves busy on phones, friends and work, the child will start handling things on its own and it can be a disaster," he said.