Mumbai parents, don’t let your child suffer sexual abuse in silence. Report before it’s too late

The child suffers constant assault and violation day after day, in silence, either because they are not taken seriously or because of the taboo

One of every five children raped in India was from Maharashtra. At least two of all reported child molestations in the country took place in this state. Girls and boys are kidnapped from right outside their homes and raped; they are attacked by men they trust – uncles, older cousins, teachers, and even fathers. Offenders lurk around schools, playgrounds and are inside school buses.

We tell you what to do if you or your closed one is victim of sexual abuse:

1. Approach the nearest police station to register a complaint

2. Any person with information of abuse can lodge the FIR. It is not necessary the information must be given by the victim

3. As soon as information is given to the Police, an FIR must be recorded without waiting for the victim under the POCSO Act, 2012 and the Maharashtra Police Guidelines

4. If the victim is a woman/girl, and has reported the abuse herself, the FIR must be registered by a woman officer

5. If information of an offence committed is given to a police station, but the offence was committed in another area, the police station must register a ‘Zero’ FIR and immediately transfer the case

6. Within 24 hours of receiving information of an offence under POCSO Act, 2012, or Rape under IPC, it is mandatory for the police to send the victim for a medical test

7. For guidance and help, call the child helpline number 103