Boon to the nation | Child abuse prevention measures that need to be taken

The World Health Organization (WHO) characterizes child abuse and child maltreatment as "all forms of physical and emotional ill-treatment, sexual abuse, neglect or negligent treatment or commercial or other exploitation, resulting in actual or potential harm to the child's health, survival, development or dignity." In either case of abuse, physical or emotional, the trauma and its effects have a lifelong impact on the child; though the intensity wears off, the negativity persists for long. The ordeal trickles down from the child into other aspects of his/her life like friend circle, family, society, etc. which must be addressed in due time to avoid further damage. Child abuse prevention is the need of the hour, specifically in our society, where it is taken for granted that children do not have a voice. We must, therefore, stand as support systems for those who are vulnerable to these atrocities and are less able to comprehend and act upon it. 

The child is surrounded by multiple systems like its family, religious and social communities, schools, legal bodies, etc. All these systems must adopt the practice of reaching out to children regardless of issues. This act of reaching out could be accomplished in various ways that will establish normalcy between the child and the aforementioned systems. Reaching out could mean speaking to them in general, teaching them about their rights and civil liberties, building awareness about interaction with people – physical, mental, even virtual, educating them about child abuse, and various other methods that could enable them to distinguish between what is acceptable and what is not! This is, however, the beginning of creating a safe environment.

Legal agencies also need to be involved and supportive in case such an occasion arises; their primary concern should be the physical and mental well-being of the child. The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act makes it unlawful to observe and not report suspected child abuse. Additionally, 'e-box' is an online reporting system commenced by The Ministry of Women and Child Development that enables children to anonymously report occurrences of inappropriate touching and molestation, which are received by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights.

One can initiate help towards child abuse prevention by donating to NGOs that have been tirelessly serving children who have faced such situations and also help them by providing rehabilitation. Various services and programs are conducted all over India by engaging parents, teachers, communities, and even children generating awareness about sexual abuse. It has extensive experience in partnering with civil society organizations, child-led initiatives, governments, and other key stakeholders to stop all forms of violence against children.

Join the fight against child abuse today; your help could save a child's life!