Hyderabad: Everyday three sexual abuse incidents are reported and most of the suspects are known persons of the victims like neighbours, teachers, watchmen and drivers. “Such criminals get the courage to exploit the child as they can silence the child by giving chocolates and gifts. They entice the child and choose their victims carefully as not every child falls prey to such men,” said Purnima Nagaraja, consulting psychiatrist.
More than 670 sexual assault cases reported in 2015 and it rose to 819 in 2016, and 84 cases were registered in three months this year. Many cases go unreported. “The child is deeply affected by such incidents. The offenders, on the other hand, make the child feel pampered and loved,” said the psychiatrist.
“The incident makes them less social, leading to anger management issues and other stress-related disorders like post-traumatic stress disorder. I once had a patient who was a victim of sexual abuse and had an eating disorder and was obese. When asked she simply said that she does not wish to look good anymore,” said Dr Nagaraja.
Why kids don’t open up to parents
- Fear of losing freedom and being scolded.
- Fear of changing school and losing friends.
- Sometimes, a child may be confused if they experienced positive physical pleasure, arousal, or emotional intimacy from the abuse.
Measures taken by Silver oaks after Chandini’s death
School Safety Committee: It will ensure and monitor safety practices within the school on regular basis. The committee includes the principal, parents, teachers and supporting staff.
School Bus: Bus staff should follow clear mandates, including the seat to student ratio, display of emergency numbers and tracking system. Parents must be aware of all the stoppage of bus.
School Bus Route Audit: The school management should choose a safe route to school and must conduct audit on a periodically basis. The management and local government should trace out the obstructions and challenges faced by students.
School Infrastructure : It should be equipped with all equipment to deal with emergency situations. No new construction should be allowed within school hours.
School Environment: Safety around school premises is important. School management must ensure its surroundings are kept under the watch.
First Aid Service: The school should have proper first aid service.
Drinking Water: School must provide safe drinking water to students.
Oct 16: Watchman leaves the city
Oct 21: Girl informs parents and is taken to hospital.
Oct 26: Complaint lodged based on medical reports.
Nov 1: Watchman called back by school management and is arrested.
