Sexual abuse of nursery student: Cops accused of violating POCSO Act

executive@coastaldigest.com (CD Network | Photos by Suresh)
March 20, 2015

Mangaluru, Mar 20: Expressing concern over the lack of legal action against the management and head of Mangalore One School for showing irresponsibility in the case of sexual abuse of a nursery student by a school van driver near Thokkottu last week, a group of like-minded activists alleged that the police department was showing signs of trying to cover up the case and the school’s involvement in it.

press club 20 1

Addressing a media conference here on Friday, state convenor of Campaign Against Child Labour (CACL) Renni D’Souza said that even a week after the sexual abuse took place, the police department had not taken any action against the management and head of the school. The school management committee did not take any responsibility with regard to the case or the well-being of the child, and initially tried to cover up the matter. The management committee members also show a lack of awareness of any child protection policy in the school, he said, urging the public education department and the district administration to conduct an enquiry in this regard.

He said that the irresponsible behaviour of the school management committee was very condemning and urged suitable action against the management of the school.

‘Police have violated sections of POCSO Act’

Mr D’Souza also alleged violation of the Protection Of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act by the investigating police officers in the sexual abuse case. Certain sections of the POCSO Act states that when the child is taken into their protective custody, the police officers must not be present in their uniform and the child must not be taken in a police vehicle.

In the sexual case of the nursery student, the child was taken in a police van to the hospital on the day of the crime, while policemen were present in front of the child in uniform, he said.

He urged that the sexual abuse case should be handled by a special fast-track court within a period of six months to ensure swift justice to the child and her family.

Silent candlelight march – Justice for Baby Nirbhaya

Co-ordinator of Citizen’s Forum for Mangalore Development Vidya Dinker said that the Child Welfare Committee, Dakshina Kannada had sent notices to the police department and the school in question to appear before the committee. In view of the sexual abuse of the child, the entire back-up system present has failed to act in favour of the child.

In order to make the system more responsive, a silent candle-light will be held by activists and like-minded citizens march under the aegis of Justice for Baby Nirbhaya Forum between 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. from Nehru Maidan on Saturday, she said, stressing on the necessity for more awareness in the society on child sexual abuse.

Director of Centre for Integrated Learning, Mangalore Sachita Nandagopal, general secretary of Sahana Women’s Counselling, Mangalore Khairunnisa and president of Career Guidance and Information Centre, Mangalore Umar U H were present.

Also Read: Hundreds rally for swift justice in sexual abuse of nursery kid; warn government

press club 20 1

Comments

Add new comment

  • Coastaldigest.com reserves the right to delete or block any comments.
  • Coastaldigset.com is not responsible for its readers’ comments.
  • Comments that are abusive, incendiary or irrelevant are strictly prohibited.
  • Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name to avoid reject.
News Network
February 1,2025

hifindia.jpg

In response to the ongoing blood shortage in Mangaluru, HIF India - Medical Cell is taking a proactive step by organizing a Blood Donation Camp. This initiative aims to support local blood banks and provide essential medical aid to those in need of urgent transfusions.

Event Details:

Date: Sunday, 2nd February 2025

Time: 9:00 AM to 1:30 PM

Venue: HIF Auditorium, Masjid-Ul-Ehsan, Vaslane 1st Cross, Mangalore

The participation of Mangaluru’s residents is crucial in making this event a success. Blood donation is a simple yet impactful way to contribute to society, and every drop donated can save multiple lives.

Special Arrangements for Women

To ensure the comfort and privacy of female donors, separate arrangements have been made, encouraging their participation in this noble cause.

Call for Action

HIF India - Medical Cell urges all eligible citizens to step forward and take part in this lifesaving initiative. Your single act of generosity can make a significant difference to those in need.

For further inquiries, please contact: +91 6366 296 133

Comments

Add new comment

  • Coastaldigest.com reserves the right to delete or block any comments.
  • Coastaldigset.com is not responsible for its readers’ comments.
  • Comments that are abusive, incendiary or irrelevant are strictly prohibited.
  • Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name to avoid reject.
News Network
February 5,2025

manjunathbhat.jpg

Mangaluru: In a heartfelt farewell, the Govt Muslim Residential School near Deralakatte bid an emotional goodbye to Manjunath Bhat, a mathematics teacher who dedicated 29 years of his life to shaping young minds. The event, held on Monday, was organized by the school and its alumni association as Bhat prepares to retire in March.

Poornima, district officer from the minority welfare department, praised Bhat’s unwavering commitment. “Serving at the same institution for 29 years is no small feat. It speaks volumes about his dedication,” she remarked.

His colleague, Mohammed Haneef, reflected on Bhat’s exemplary service. “Teaching Muslim children for nearly three decades, he never faced a single complaint. He is truly a model teacher. Post-retirement, he plans to take up farming in his village,” he shared.

Mohammed Anwar AS, president of the alumni association and professor at Yenepoya Medical College, expressed deep gratitude. “No matter how far we go, we must always remember our teachers. I owe my success, in part, to educators like Manjunath Bhat,” he said, recalling cherished memories from his school days.

Overwhelmed with emotion, Bhat addressed the gathering, saying, “I never expected such a grand farewell. My bond with my students is unbreakable, and this event is a testament to the strength of that connection.”

The farewell was presided over by school principal Umarabba, who lauded Bhat’s dedication. “He has been a pillar of this institution, recognized as a model teacher who served with diligence, regardless of the challenges faced,” he noted.

The celebration saw alumni and dignitaries honouring Bhat with valuable gifts, including a gold ring. His wife, Sahana, and children, Srivatsa and Sindhoora, stood by his side as he was showered with love and appreciation—an unforgettable tribute to a teacher whose legacy will live on in the hearts of his students.

Comments

Add new comment

  • Coastaldigest.com reserves the right to delete or block any comments.
  • Coastaldigset.com is not responsible for its readers’ comments.
  • Comments that are abusive, incendiary or irrelevant are strictly prohibited.
  • Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name to avoid reject.
coastaldigest.com news network
February 12,2025

Mangaluru: Dakshina Kannada MP Captain Brijesh Chowta has urged Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to prioritize increased investments in Mangaluru during the upcoming Global Investors Meet for Coastal Karnataka. He emphasized the region’s immense potential for sustainable industrial growth.

Coastal Karnataka’s Strengths

The MP highlighted Coastal Karnataka’s skilled workforce, premier educational institutions, and strong entrepreneurial ecosystem, making it an ideal destination for industrial expansion.

With its strategic location, excellent port connectivity, and robust infrastructure, the region is particularly suited for industries in R&D, Global Capability Centers (GCCs) - IT and ITES, fintech, renewable energy, marine biotechnology, tourism, and food processing.

Challenges Hindering Growth

Despite these advantages, the MP acknowledged challenges such as youth unemployment, migration of skilled talent, and a lack of large-scale industrial investments. He urged the government to take concrete steps to address these issues.

Proposed Investment Initiatives

To harness the untapped potential of Coastal Karnataka, he requested the CM’s support in:

•    Establishing an IT and startup hub to leverage the region’s large talent pool, boost entrepreneurship, and curb brain drain.

•    Facilitating investments in GCCs and R&D centers, capitalizing on the region’s skilled workforce.

•    Setting up a technological innovation park in Mangaluru to attract investors and institutions.

•    Enhancing New Mangalore Port and developing an integrated coastal economic zone to encourage global trade and manufacturing.

•    Supporting sustainable fisheries, marine research, and ocean-based industries.

•    Encouraging investments in eco-tourism, wellness retreats, and adventure tourism to drive economic growth.

The MP stressed that proactive government intervention in these sectors would significantly boost the region’s economy, attract industries, and create employment opportunities. The proposal is now under consideration.

Comments

Add new comment

  • Coastaldigest.com reserves the right to delete or block any comments.
  • Coastaldigset.com is not responsible for its readers’ comments.
  • Comments that are abusive, incendiary or irrelevant are strictly prohibited.
  • Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name to avoid reject.