THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Despite the strengthening of the legal system and awareness, there is no shortage of violence against children in God's own country. In 2020 alone, 3019 POCSO cases were registered.

In five years, 18,858 children were victims of violence. The fact that it is mostly in families adds to the seriousness. In more than 80 percent of the cases, the accused are relatives. Most of them do not end up as cases due to pressure. Even if a complaint is lodged with the police, the family will withdraw for fear of embarrassment.

The number of child homicides also increased in 2020. 28 babies, including newborns, were killed. In 2019, 2018 and 2017 it was 20, 28 and 27 respectively. In 2020, 1143 children were sexually abused. In 2019, 1313 children were abused, in 2017- 1137 and in 2017-1045 children were abused.

POCSO cases have not decreased significantly either. In 2020, Malappuram had the highest number of cases - 379.

Thiruvananthapuram is in the second position with 351. Kollam had 250 and Palakkad had 257 cases. The lowest is in Pathanamthitta district-108.

In 2019, 3609 POSCO cases were registered in the state. 3180 in 2018 and 2697 in 2017.

The figures underscore the need to strengthen awareness programs, including in schools.

Violence against children

2016 - 2881
2017 - 3543
2018 - 4253
2019 - 4553
2020 - 3628 (Incomplete)