The National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR) has unveiled a distressing report on the prevalence of child abuse in Pakistan throughout the year 2023.
Titled 'Cruel Numbers 2023,' the report, as quoted by the NCHR, discloses that a staggering total of 4,213 children fell victim to various forms of abuse, painting a grim picture of the state of child protection in the country.
According to the report, an average of 11 children faced abuse each day across Pakistan, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive measures to address this pervasive issue. The data, meticulously compiled by Sahil, a renowned non-profit organization dedicated to child protection, sheds light on the harrowing reality faced by countless children nationwide.
An analysis of the reported cases reveals a troubling gender disparity, with 53% of victims being girls and 47% boys. Shockingly, children as young as 0-5 years old were subjected to sexual abuse, highlighting the vulnerability of even the most innocent members of society.
The report delves into the perpetrators of these heinous acts, indicating that acquaintances remain the primary offenders, followed by relatives, family members, strangers, and women abettors.
Moreover, the geographical breakdown of cases exposes the alarming concentration of abuse cases in certain regions, with Punjab bearing the brunt with 75% of reported incidents.
Expressing grave concern over the findings, NCHR Chairperson Rabia Javeri Agha emphasized the imperative for concrete action to combat child abuse, calling attention to the absence of a national action plan on the matter by the Government of Pakistan.
Sahil Executive Director Manizeh Bano echoed these sentiments, advocating for the implementation of Article 25-A of the Constitution, which guarantees free education for children aged 5 to 16 years. Bano stressed the importance of providing life-skills based education to empower children and protect them from exploitation.
The report also highlights the crucial role of law enforcement, with 91% of cases being registered with the police. However, despite some positive indicators, the grim reality of child abuse persists, with cases ranging from sexual assault to abduction and even murder.
As Pakistan grapples with the stark realities laid bare by the 'Cruel Numbers 2023' report, there is an urgent call for concerted efforts from all sectors of society to safeguard the well-being and rights of its most vulnerable citizens.
