Child Safety – A Fundamental Concern in Our Society

The recent abduction drama in Kollam, Kerala, which fortunately concluded with her safe recovery, brings to light the critical issue of child safety and the challenges faced in addressing missing children cases. The data presented in the Kerala Assembly, indicating that 62 children have gone missing between 2018 and 2023, is a cause for significant concern.

Importance of Child Safety

Child safety is a fundamental concern in any society. It involves not only protecting children from physical harm but also ensuring their emotional and psychological well-being. The rise in missing children cases, particularly those that remain unsolved, underscores the urgent need for more effective measures to protect children. The emotional turmoil experienced by the families of these missing children cannot be overstated.

Current Challenges

The revelation by Chief Minister that closure reports have been submitted in courts for six cases after hitting a dead end highlights a concerning gap in the investigative processes and resources dedicated to these cases. The fact that districts like Malappuram, Kasargod, and Kozhikode city top the list of missing children cases points to the need for targeted interventions in these areas.

What Needs to Improve

Enhanced Investigative Resources: Law enforcement agencies need more resources, including manpower and technological tools, to track and solve missing children cases.

Community Involvement: As seen in the case of Abigel Sara Reji, community involvement can be crucial. Public awareness campaigns can educate communities on how to spot and report signs of child abduction or abuse.

Better Coordination Among Agencies: There needs to be improved coordination between police, child welfare committees, and non-governmental organizations specializing in child protection.

Training and Sensitization: Law enforcement and child protection officers require specialized training in handling cases involving children, which are often sensitive and require a different approach compared to cases involving adults.

Strengthening Legal Frameworks: Updating laws and regulations to better address and prevent incidents of child abduction and trafficking is necessary.

Support for Families: Providing emotional and psychological support to families of missing children should be a part of the child protection mechanism.

Looking to the Future

The Kerala State Commission for Protection of Child Rights, under the chairmanship of K V Manoj Kumar, emphasizes the need for a coordinated effort, as seen in the Kollam incident, in all child missing cases. This incident demonstrates the positive outcomes that can be achieved when police mechanisms function effectively and when people from all walks of life come together for a common cause.

While the state has made some strides in protecting children, the data and recent incidents indicate that much remains to be done. Investing in resources, training, community involvement, and legal frameworks are key to ensuring the safety of children in Kerala. Every missing child is one too many, and the goal should be to create a society where every child is safe, valued, and protected.