Dimapur, June 3 (MExN): The Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP), Nagaland State Branch, has expressed deep concern over the increasing number of crimes against children in the state and strongly condemned incidents of child abuse and sexual assault.
In a statement, the organisation said recent data indicated a disturbing rise in offences against children in Nagaland. It noted that 52 cases of crimes against children were registered during the last 12 months, marking a 100 per cent increase from 26 cases recorded in the preceding year.
According to the IAP, the overall child crime rate in the state has risen from 3.2 to 6.3 per lakh population, reflecting what it described as a growing threat to the safety and well-being of children.
The organisation further stated that 18 cases registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act involved 19 child victims, underscoring the urgent need for stronger child protection mechanisms.
Emphasising that the statistics represent real children whose safety, dignity, trust and childhood have been violated, the IAP said protecting children is a collective responsibility requiring the involvement of families, communities, schools, churches, healthcare professionals, law enforcement agencies, policymakers and civil society.
The academy called for coordinated efforts to create an environment where every child feels safe, valued, respected and protected.
Reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding children's rights, health and well-being, the IAP Nagaland State Branch urged all stakeholders to unite in combating child abuse and sexual violence and ensuring a safer future for every child.
