A workshop for the journalists of the district was organised here to enhance knowledge on the role of media during reporting of child sexual abuse and the constructive role they can play.

The speakers stating that child sexual abuse is a major concern in India, mentioned the roles and responsibilities of the stakeholders under the JJ Act and the POCSO Act.

They stressed that media should be very careful while making reports on such crimes by withholding their names and identities and publishing photos etc.

“Many a time it is observed although the name of the victim is not published yet the other details including the name of the parents, village and block reveal the identity of the victim indirectly. By which not only the victim but also her  parents and relatives  undergo severe trauma  and social stigma,”  the speakers said adding “ the media should  take utmost care on the key aspect while reporting.”

“ The media on the other hand can play a constructive role by reporting such cases which are suppressed by influential people and bringing to the notice of district administration, CWC, Childline, Child protection officer and other enforcement agencies. Further, they can generate awareness among the people about the provisions laid down under law to protect the child's rights and dignity,” said social activist Subasini Jena.

The  parents or guardians of the victims should report the matter of abuse in any form without fear and reservations, said Jena, who is Editor "Rebati", a  monthly featured magazine.

The programme was organised jointly under the sponsorship of NACG EVAC India, World Vision India and PECUC  in the association with May I Help You.

Child sexual abuse in India is a matter of serious concern but while reporting there are a set of dos and don’ts which are to be followed by the journalists. Even the Press Council of India has prescribed guidelines about such reporting,” said district information and public relations officer(DIPRO) Dipak Sahoo.

Ubachak Mohanty, the convenor of the interactive workshop, mentioned the steps and methods to be used while assessing the child, engaging a support person, social investigation report, prosecution methods, victim compensation and rehabilitation, the appointment of the prosecutor, the role of the special court and monitoring mechanism etc. He also explained various forms of sexual abuse during the COVID pandemic period.

Sibdas Kundu stressing the adopting extra precaution when reporting child sexual abuse cases also said despite awareness the child sexual abuse cases in many occasions go unreported due to various reasons including social stigma and parents' constraints etc.