#ProtectedByPOCSO: Targeting Child Sexual Abuse

India is facing a harsh reality - a significant number of children are experiencing sexual abuse. A disturbing statistic from the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD 2007) reveals that nearly half of all children in India have faced sexual abuse. With new cases reported every single day (182 according to NCRB 2022), Arpan, a child rights organization, has taken a bold step to combat this issue.

Arpan's new campaign, #ProtectedByPOCSO, takes a unique approach by directly targeting potential offenders. It educates the public on what constitutes Child Sexual Abuse (CSA) and emphasizes that such acts are not only unacceptable but also criminal. The campaign highlights the POCSO Act (Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses Act, 2012), stressing the severe legal repercussions offenders will face.

"We can't ignore this serious problem any longer," said Pooja Taparia, Arpan's founder and CEO. "We need proactive measures to prevent abuse and safeguard our children." #ProtectedByPOCSO goes beyond just legal consequences. It aims to make offenders understand the social stigma and isolation they will face for their actions.

Bollywood actress Vidya Balan, Arpan's Goodwill Ambassador, strongly supports the campaign. "It's time to unite and speak out for child safety," she stated. "Children deserve to grow up free from the fear of abuse. This campaign sends a clear message - predators will be caught and punished."

Launched during Child Safety Week (November 14-20, 2024), the campaign utilized various public outreach methods. #ProtectedByPOCSO messages are displayed across public transportation in Mumbai and Thane, including the Maha Mumbai Metro and buses. Billboards, local trains, and even auto rickshaws showcase the campaign. Moviegoers in Mumbai can view the campaign film at PVR theaters, and it's also available on major OTT platforms like Jio Cinema, Zee5, and MX Player.

Schools across Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Goa, and Andhra Pradesh are actively participating. A powerful symbol of child protection is displayed on their main gates - school uniforms with the message: "All children in India are #ProtectedByPOCSO. Stop Right Now or Get Caught."

For more information on the campaign and the POCSO Act, visit Arpan's website (www.arpan.org.in) or follow #ProtectedByPOCSO on social media. Together, we can create a safer India for our children.