Educating girls must to prevent harassment

Vijayawada: Sexual abuse and harassing a girl child has become an increasing social disorder in the society. Even though there aren’t such incidents that have been registered in Vijayawada, psychologists have opined that many cases are going unregistered by parents. Watching porn film on mobile phones is one of the reasons for this disorder in men.

In one incident, an old man attempted to rape a Class V girl and in another case, the brother of victim’s father tried to molest a Class VI girl. As these incidents are on the rise, the safety of the girl child even at home is questionable. Many cases go unreported as parents and children are unable to differentiate between what classifies as abuse and what doesn’t.

Vasavya Mahila Mandali technical support manager, Dr V. Keerthi said, “Initially, we need to focus on ways to prevent this. Instead of judging or analysing the incident, we need to educate children right from a very young age. Anganwadi centres, play schools, schools, and colleges are trying to create awareness among children about sexual abuse and harassment. Many girls do not know that they are being abused or harassed sexually. It is our responsibility to teach them the do’s and don’ts from childhood itself and help create a friendly atmosphere where they can share anything without any hesitation or fear.

Dr Keerti said, “Disturbed families, extramarital affairs, parents negligence are few reasons why children move away and may get attached to somebody else, which is a threat. Watching porn on mobile phones has also become a catalyst for them.” “Everybody should start living with basic ethics. Only then can the society be strengthened and the atrocities on girls be avoided,” Dr Keerti opined.