THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Stepmother smashes girl's face for using the bathroom at home. Stepfather burns 8-year-old with an iron box. Mother's lover repeatedly rapes two girls...

With the conscience-shaking atrocities becoming a daily occurrence, the government is preparing for tough action. An action plan will be implemented to ensure the protection of children. Minister V. Sivankutty said that helpboxes will be set up in schools so that children facing abuse from relatives at home can lodge confidential complaints. The name of the child does not need to be written in the complaint. The headmaster should check it weekly and take action. Serious complaints should be reported to the government.

Children growing up under the care of stepmothers and stepfathers will be identified. This will be done with the help of schools and voluntary organisations. There are many reasons for violence, such as drug abuse, family problems, and parents' illicit relationships. The Child Rights Commission, police, and child welfare committees are unable to put an end to it. Most of the violence is kept secret.

Victims of violence in 10 years: 43,474

Murdered children: 282

Sexual assault cases: 13,825

Abducted and not returned: 1871

Immediate case

1. Police will immediately register a case on complaints of child abuse at home. Juvenile Justice Act and POCSO Act may be imposed
2. Responsible parenting will be implemented to educate parents that child abuse is illegal

The government is committed to ensuring the safety of children

-V Sivankutty,

Education Minister