Why do many children’s issues remain anonymous?

Children in Indian setting are protected and guaranteed with many rights. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights that has come into force w.e.f. December 10, 1948 and the Committee on the Rights of the Child, in addition to the Constitution of the Republic of India collectively guarantee many rights to the children and especially for the female kids. Female kids get ample of additional rights, for they fall in the category of women’s rights as well. Despite the fact there are various acts and laws in force that are exclusively meant for the protection of children, many children’s issues in India remain anonymous for sundry reasons. One of the many angles of perspective is discussed here:

Many cases of sexual abuse go unreported by the families and even more cases are not shared by the victims themselves. Every year the numbers are drastically increased. Here are a few reasons why the children who have gone through sexual assault do not talk about it:

Fear is instilled - The abusers instill fear by telling them that they would kidnap the kids or lurk to kill your parents. The predator convinces the kid that he or she has enjoyed what had happened and wanted it more. On the contrary they can give a negative imprint of the consequences, if the child shares it with their parents. Kids cannot play devil’s advocate, and tend to believe the slayer’s words. After the bad touch happens the first time, second time it is way easier for the abuser to convince the kid.

Short of words – Kids often are short of words to explain the incident that happened to them. Children don’t even have proper names to describe their genitals. Often parents use words which describe the organs as dirty. India is short of parents who teach their kids about the thing between their legs is called vagina or penis, and the back side is called the butt. Never try to avoid using those words and make your kids comfortable.

Short of self-confidence - Generally, kids are in notion that parents will not believe them. Often children become judgmental on whom the parents are going to support. Be a supportive parent and boost the morale of your kid as much as possible. When your child tells you something, do not give a deaf ear. Be a little more careful with girl children. Do not differentiate based on gender, treat all the kids equally.

Strict parents - At times one of the parents in the family is strict. It’s a ground reality in most of the Indian families parents often command their children with eyes. Children should never be afraid to talk to parents. Every negative word you speak may not affect the child immediately, but when such situations arise, kids recollect every secret they hide and negative thoughts.

Parents should come out misconceptions like – “This kind of thing doesn't happen where we live. I would know if something happened to my child.” Anything can happen anywhere any time, be cautious and take time to talk to your child. Be involved in your child's life and try to teach them basic law. Be available for your kids always.