India’s Struggle to Curb Child Sexual Violence

India’s Struggle to Curb Child Sexual Violence

Why in the News ?

A Lancet study revealed that 32% of girls and 13.5% of boys in India under 18 face sexual violence, surpassing the global average. The report calls for systemic prevention, awareness, and strengthening legal and societal responses.

Magnitude of the Issue:

• A Lancet study shows 32% girls and 5% boys under 18 in India have experienced sexual violence.
• This is higher than the global average of 19% for girls and 15% for boys.
• Rates are comparable to high-income countries like the US and France, possibly due to better reporting in India.
• Some conflict-ridden regions with weak frameworks report lower prevalence, hinting at underreporting.

Gaps in Legal and Institutional Mechanisms

• POCSO Act (2012) has strengthened child protection laws, but gaps remain.
• Subtle forms of abuse are often unrecognised or inadequately addressed.
• Sensitisation of government personnel (police, judiciary, medical staff) is still inadequate.
• A multi-pronged approach involving legislature, executive, and judiciary is necessary to bridge these gaps.

The Need for Societal Change and Awareness

• Effective curbing requires a systemic, preventive approach rather than isolated government actions.
• Open dialogue, destigmatising disclosure, and early gender-sensitivity education are critical.
• There is an urgent need to address toxic masculinity and rising incel culture, especially among youth influenced by social media.
• Without societal transformation, policy efforts will remain incomplete and ineffective.