Highest number of POCSO cases in Malappuram, 241 incidents in six months

MALAPPURAM: Malappuram has the highest number of POCSO cases reported in the state till June this year. Crime Records Bureau figures show that 241 POCSO cases were reported in six months.

This is the figure from January to June this year. January - 43, February - 39, March - 40, April - 35, May - 46, June - 38 cases have been registered. 2,180 POCSO cases have been reported in the state till June this year. Last year, 499 POCSO cases were reported in the district. The number of cases in 2022 and 2021 were 526 and 462 respectively. Sexual abuse from neighbours and relatives, sexual assault in romantic relationships and unnatural abuse are the most commonly reported kinds.

Due to increased awareness among children and parents about POCSO cases, there has been a reduction in the tendency to hesitate to file a case. Officials say Malappuram is leading in the number of cases due to its high population compared to other districts.

Prolonged trials in POCSO cases are causing psychological problems for children. Fast-track POCSO courts have been set up for trial, but even long-pending cases are yet to be disposed of. Many child victims end up getting married as the trial process drags on. With this, not many people want to proceed with the case.

Number of POCSO cases from June 2021 to June 2024 in the district

2021 - 462

2022 - 526

2023 - 499

2024 - 241