Children · The Reality
44%
rise in crimes against children · 2014–2017
Crimes Against Children in India
Children are among the most vulnerable — and the least equipped to protect themselves. Here's why prevention matters.
What This Data Means
- Cases rose from 89,423 (2014) to 1,29,032 (2017) — a 44% increase.
- Largely driven by kidnapping/abduction and cases registered under the POCSO Act.
- Partly reflects better reporting after the POCSO Act, 2012 — and partly reflects real, growing risk, including online.
How PENN Helps
- Gender sensitisation seminars and safety awareness workshops for students aged 12–22.
- Covers consent, personal boundaries, digital safety, and how to recognise and report unsafe situations.
Precautions & Safety Tips
- 1Teach children the difference between safe and unsafe touch in age-appropriate language, and make clear that they will never be blamed for telling an adult.
- 2Keep communication open — children are far more likely to disclose abuse to an adult they trust and who has reacted calmly to smaller concerns in the past.
- 3Supervise and discuss children's online activity — a large share of newer cases involve online contact or exploitation, not just in-person risk.
- 4Check whether your child's school has a functioning child protection or POCSO policy, and know how to escalate a concern if needed.
Need Help?
1098
CHILDLINE (National Child Helpline)
24x7, free, for children in need of aid or protection
ncpcr.gov.in
POCSO e-Box
NCPCR's portal for children to report abuse directly and discreetly
1930
Cyber Crime Helpline
For online exploitation or abuse
+91 73973 89636
PENN Trust
To request a school or community safety workshop, or report a concern
Data source
National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data, cited in a Government of India press release (PIB)
View official source