IN recent years, Kashmir Valley has witnessed a sharp increase in reported cases of child sexual abuse. The trend reflects the problem is more pervasive than we had imagined. As a report carried by this paper highlights, in 2022 alone, 278 cases were reported, but only 72 of them were resolved by the end of the year. This highlights the urgent need for the justice system to prioritize these cases and ensure swift and fair trials. The courage of victims coming forward to report abuse indicates a growing awareness of the issue, although it also highlights the urgent need for effective measures to tackle it.
Tragically, many victims are subjected to abuse within their own homes, making their situations even more challenging. Living with their abusers, victims often endure distressing circumstances, fearing the repercussions of speaking out. The trauma experienced by survivors of child sexual abuse often persists into adulthood, causing significant mental and emotional challenges. Feelings of guilt, shame, low self-esteem, and trust issues are common among survivors. It can take considerable time for them to break free from the cycle of abuse. However, when they do find the strength to come forward, it is vital that they receive the necessary support and assistance to begin the healing process. Mental health professionals and counselors must be readily available to provide the necessary support to survivors.
Organizations such as “Not Afraid” are playing a crucial role in raising awareness about the issue in Kashmir. Through door-to-door campaigns, awareness camps, and educational initiatives, they equip children and their mothers with the knowledge and resources to identify and respond appropriately to such incidents.
The introduction of the Child Protection Scheme in 2018 and the enactment of the POSCO (Amendment) Act, 2019 in Kashmir have facilitated an increase in the reporting of child sexual abuse cases. However, there is still a significant backlog of cases, and justice is delayed for many victims.
It is time for Kashmiri society as a whole to address the grim realities of child sexual abuse and work collectively to protect its children. The government, non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and families must unite to implement comprehensive measures that prioritize prevention, support survivors, and bring perpetrators to justice. Only by confronting this hidden crisis head-on can we hope to create a future where children in Kashmir can grow up free from the horrors of sexual abuse. Education plays a pivotal role in prevention, and schools in Kashmir have started implementing programs to educate students about the concepts of good touch and bad touch. By empowering children with awareness and encouraging them to speak up about any discomfort they experience, we can foster a safer environment for the younger generation.
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