Tangkhul bodies call to tackle child abuse
Source: The Sangai Express
Ukhrul, June 12 2015 :
To combat child sexual abuse in the district, representatives of all the Tangkhul social organizations, NGOs, religious leaders, youth leaders, school Principals, teachers, doctors, police personnel of Ukhrul area along with DC MH Arvind held a joint meeting today at Tangrei community hall, reports Mungchan Zimik.
During the meeting MH Arvind emphasised on the responsibilities of parents, school and community in fighting against child sexual abuse.
He said that though such crime can be dealt legally, practices of mutual understanding and compromise have failed to deliver justice to the victims.
Legal cum probation officer of Ukhrul LR Yaomatai spoke on Protection Of Children from Sexual Offences Act 2012, differences between Special Juvenile Police Unit and Juvenile Justice Act.
He stated that Tangkhul community usually cannot differentiate between a legal procedure and conventional practices.
"Any crime committed against a child is treated as a serious offence and legal assistance should be sought," Yaomatai added.
Dr Geom, who works on issues related to child sexual abuse particularly in Ukhrul, revealed the data collected from the local community.
He said that a child is mostly abused sexually by a trusted relative or friends.
An offender would earn the trust of a child through pretentious encouragement, support or rewards.
Group discussion on understanding and prevention of child sexual abuse in Churches, schools, hostels, children homes, boarding was also held.