Did you know it is though that as many as 53% are victims of child sexual abuse. Home should be the safest place for a child, but unfortunately this is not true for many. In fact, many abusers are individuals trusted by the family.
Sexual abuse not only is an act of violence, but damages an individual's dignity too. When this abuse is against children, it snatches away what should be a time of innocence, freedom and joy. Unfortunately abusers gain the trust of their victims under a camouflage of helpfulness, kindness or guidance. This sickening crime, used to be brushed under the carpet by families and society - due to secrecy, ignorance and denial. But not any more. Living in Delhi at the moment, everyday there are articles in the paper highlighting heinous acts of sexual abuse to children - the youngest recently being 5 years of age.
Sexual abuse can be strangers or known to the child; the victims can be either male or female; this can occur in any class/caste/religion and can be against both able and disabled children.
Sexual abuse not only is an act of violence, but damages an individual's dignity too. When this abuse is against children, it snatches away what should be a time of innocence, freedom and joy. Unfortunately abusers gain the trust of their victims under a camouflage of helpfulness, kindness or guidance. This sickening crime, used to be brushed under the carpet by families and society - due to secrecy, ignorance and denial. But not any more. Living in Delhi at the moment, everyday there are articles in the paper highlighting heinous acts of sexual abuse to children - the youngest recently being 5 years of age. Sexual abuse can be strangers or known to the child; the victims can be either male or female; this can occur in any class/caste/religion and can be against both able and disabled children.
What is the definition of child sexual abuse?
"Any use of a child or young person to meet the sexual needs of another person in a position of power, authority and trust and who has an ongoing emotional bonding with that child is sexual abuse of the child. This person can be an adult, or another child who is older or bigger, within the family or outside. The abuse can begin in infancy, childhood or adolescence. It can be a one-time experience, something that happens more than once or repeatedly."
There are several forms of sexual abuse including assault, exhibitionism etc
In many cases, the children do not speak up about what they have experienced as they have been threatened by their abuser. Some victims also believe that they may not b believed, or will be blamed. This is all entwined with feeling ashamed, confused and don't have anyone to tell.
Statistics:
- Of the 53.2% children that are abused, 53% are boys and 47% are girls.
- 50% of abusers are known to the child and are in a position of trust.
- 72.1% of children do not report the matter to anyone.
This past week, there have been protests down the road in central Delhi, after the rape and torture of a 5 year old girl. It has even been brought to light that the family of the girl, were offered 2000 rupees (around £25) by the police to keep silent about their daughters suffering. If we cannot trust the police to stand up for justice - then what can we do?!
""This issue can't be hushed up. The police shouldn't wait for crimes to be committed. When children of migrants go missing, the police never file a report. They think they are dispensable," Kavita Krishnan, a rights activist from the All India Progressive Women's Association told DW."
Visit http://www.satyamevjayate.in/issue02/indiasays/, it's a painful read but it's something that should be said. We should not live in ignorance about this matter. For the protection and safety of our children, stand up for what is right.
Together we can make a change.
It makes you wonder how sickening the human race can be and whether we are any different from animals
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