KOZHIKODE: A disturbing fact has emerged in a survey by Childline of panchayats close to Mahe: children, even in lower primary classes, are being force-fed alcohol by their inebriated parents. Childline officials, according to district coordinator M.P. Mohammedali, had covered six panchayats as part of Balasuraksha Yatra till date and had met small children who had complained to their teachers about the force-feeding.
The team’s aim was to cover seven panchayats in a month and all of them in 10 months. “Liquor is consumed everyday at the homes close to Mahe and the tendency was found to be high in Azhiyoor, Onchiyam, Chorode and Eramala panchayats,” said Mr Muhammedali. “Children from even lower primary classes were found complaining to their teachers about force-feeding by their drunkard fathers.”
Excise deputy commissioner P.K. Suresh said the department had received information from the area regarding schoolchildren bringing alcohol in water bottles to school. Childline will submit its report to the district collector after the visits to the panchayats. After the panchayat visits, block-level child security alert units will be formed, including representatives from different departments like excise and child welfare committees.
