Odisha CM flags off 15-day campaign against child sexual abuse
Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik today flagged-off 15-day statewide campaign against child sexual abuse in Bhubaneswar, urging people to fight the menace. As part of an initiative, Odisha Police in association with UNICEF rolled out 15 chariots, fitted with LCD screens to display awareness message. The rising cases of sexual abuse of minors have prompted police to launch the campaign, Odisha DGP RP Sharma said.
In 90% cases, accused is known to harassed victim
Each specially designed chariot, called Pari Express, will cover two districts before converging in for a valedictory function on June 12. "In 90% cases of sexual abuse, the accused persons are known to the victims," Patnaik said, adding only when a society is aware, it can take proper care of children. The volunteers also make arrangements for community interaction.
UNICEF provided technical support for the program
The UNICEF has provided technical support for the program and facilitated the training of folk artistes, who would be performing on the chariots as part of the drive. The campaign would reach out to people in the rural areas to create awareness on the matter. It would stress the need to report such cases to police on time.
