Most males involved in sexual crime belong to the age group between18-40 years. As per the data revealed by Crisis Intervention Center (CIC), 11-17 age group victims are the most vulnerable lot. Moreover, around 94.7 per cent of accused are known to the victims or are their close confidant in cases of sexual violence
“The targeted age group is the most alarming point in the entire study. The Government also has not taken a step in this regard. This data reflects that community-based services are required to solve this issue. This particular age group is our future. Therefore, constructive programmes should be organised for males belonging to this age group where they can play sports or spend time with their friends. Presently, most of people belonging to lower-middle class have no recreational activities to indulge in after work. Skill development programmes will definitely help,” said Shobha Vijender, founder president of NGO Sampurna.
The study also revealed that, both the accused and the victims belong to very humble backgrounds. Findings of the study reveal that 11-17 years is the most vulnerable age group and victims belonging to 0-18 age group are poor and the nature of sexual assault is quite heinous. Around 46 per cent of rape cases are reported from this age group.
“School going children are more prone to sexual assaults. Children living in poverty especially in the slum areas are most susceptible to sexual violence and in almost all cases the accused are known to the victims. In 94.7 per cent of the cases, accused are known to victims or are their close confidante and economic status of accused belong to 18-40 age group in majority of cases, irrespective of age of victims,” said Vijender.
The study is an eye opener for social scientists, media persons, criminal justice functionaries and society at large, she added.