The recent Badlapur sexual assault case, which sparked widespread protests and heightened concerns in the state, has significantly impacted the handling of child sex abuse cases in Mumbai. Following the August 20 protest at Badlapur railway station, which halted train services for ten hours, there has been a notable increase in the registration of Pocso (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) cases in the city.
After the protests erupted on August 20, the Mumbai Police registered 121 Pocso cases till September 2. This represents a significant increase over the average monthly cases typically registered by police. For comparison, Mumbai Police registered 93 Pocso cases in January, 81 in February, 123 in March, 100 in April, and 83 in May. Statistics for June, July, and August are not yet available.
The Badlapur case involved the assault of two four-year-old girls by a school janitor, leading to severe criticism of the police’s handling of the situation. Allegations surfaced that the mother of one victim faced excessive delays at the police station and hospital. In response, the senior inspector and two officers were suspended, and a departmental inquiry was initiated. The Bombay High Court also criticised the authorities for negligence in handling child sexual abuse cases and ensuring child safety in educational institutions.
In light of these issues, the Mumbai police have been instructed to handle Pocso cases with utmost sensitivity and ensure prompt registration of FIRs. The recent increase in case registrations is also linked to greater public awareness and a reduction in societal stigma associated with reporting such crimes.
Reports indicate that many recent Pocso cases involve perpetrators known to the victims, including instances of eve-teasing of school and college-going girls. Additionally, a significant number of cases have emerged where victims were found pregnant during medical examinations, further highlighting the need for improved child protection measures.
A senior police officer stated that Pocso Act cases in Mumbai have always been dealt with sensitively, regardless of recent incidents. However, considering the massive outrage following the Badlapur case, instructions were issued at the police station level to follow guidelines more closely. The surge in cases can also be attributed to increased awareness among the public regarding the reporting of such crimes. Previously, people might have avoided approaching the police due to societal stigma or embarrassment.
A senior IPS officer from the state police headquarters noted that the Badlapur case has indeed had a significant impact. Major child sex abuse cases are now being reported from Mumbai, Thane, Navi Mumbai, and Mira Bhayandar Vasai Virar (MBVV) police commissionerates. Reports of such cases have also increased in other districts.
The Maharashtra government has responded by mandating the installation of CCTV cameras in all schools and conducting thorough background checks on school employees. Failure to comply may result in serious consequences, such as withholding financial grants or revoking operational permits.
Pooja Taparia, founder and CEO of NGO Arpan, emphasised the importance of preventive measures over reactive responses. Rather than focus on quick fixes, sustainable prevention systems are required. Taparia also stressed the need for comprehensive training for educators, staff and parents to effectively address and prevent child sexual abuse.
“The government and schools, all ‘awaken’ after an incident has occurred and then implement corrective measures. Their focus is on ‘response’ rather than on ‘prevention,’ and that’s where the problem lies. The state lacks effective monitoring. There is a need for ongoing monitoring and periodic reviews to ensure that government orders or directives are being strictly implemented. We need a prevention system that is sustainable and long-lasting,” Taparia said.
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