In the digital age, the safety of children is increasingly under threat, and a recent study has shed light on alarming trends in Karnataka related to online child exposure and abuse. Unchecked access to the internet poses significant risks, leading to instances of exploitation, bullying, and even coercion among vulnerable youth. This pivotal report comes from the Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights and ChildFund India, aiming to address the burgeoning issue of online risks faced by children across five districts in the state.
The study, conducted between December 2024 and March 2025, surveyed 900 children aged 8 to 18 years, uncovering sobering realities about their online interactions. During a state-level consultation on child safety in Bengaluru, one Mysuru class 10 student poignantly stated the difficulties faced by peers: “We can’t tell our friends or parents when morphed videos are used to blackmail us because of the stigma. We need counsellors in schools.” This highlights the lack of safe spaces for children to discuss and report such incidents.
The statistics from the report reveal that a shocking 80% of parents believe that police should take a more proactive approach in responding to online abuse cases, particularly those involving coercion or exploitation. Among the children surveyed, a disturbing trend emerged where 31 participants admitted meeting online strangers in person. This risky behavior often stems from efforts to forge connections that, unfortunately, could lead to dangerous situations.
In cases of online sexual exploitation, the findings depicted an even graver picture. Out of 44 affected students, 19 reported being bullied, while 18 faced sexual coercion. Many parents reacted by deleting their children’s social media accounts, a temporary fix that does not address the root of the problem. Alarmingly, only 15 parents opted to report incidents to law enforcement. These statistics paint a clear picture of the need for increased awareness and proactive measures from both parents and authorities.
Despite regulations and structures such as special juvenile police units (SJPUs) existing on paper, stakeholders, including law enforcement officers, admitted that child-friendly police stations are not effectively implemented. As one police officer pointed out, even with the availability of helplines like 1930, the onus of raising awareness lies with various departments beyond just the police.
Legislative council chairman Basavaraj Horatti urged police personnel to make Pocso case data and subsequent actions known to the public. Transparency is crucial in building trust and ensuring that parents and children feel safe reporting incidents of online abuse. Meanwhile, officials from the education department suggested practical steps, such as printing remedial measures directly onto textbook covers, reinforcing the message of safety in educational settings.
It is undeniable that technology plays a critical role in our lives. However, with its benefits come significant risks, especially for children. The call from IT-BT officials for app bans and the proposal for widespread awareness campaigns through state media outlets like Doordarshan is a step in the right direction. Such initiatives could bolster parental guidance and child education around safe internet practices.
Interestingly, an official from the science and technology department noted that even conferences focused on advanced topics like quantum computing could provide a platform for discussions about cyber safety. This innovative approach could integrate crucial online safety education within broader tech conversations, making it more relatable and engaging for youth.
In conclusion, the abysmal state of child safety in the online domain cannot be overlooked. As digital exposure continues to rise, it is essential for parents, educators, and law enforcement agencies in Karnataka to come together. Collaborative efforts focused on awareness, education, and swift action can help mitigate risks associated with online interactions. Ultimately, ensuring that children can safely navigate the digital landscape is a shared responsibility that bears the weight of our society’s future. Without concrete steps to address these challenges, the peril persists. It’s time we prioritize our children’s safety above all else.
