IndiaThe number of cases reported under India's Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act has risen in Kerala, according to the annual report of the Kerala State Commission for Protection of Child Rights for 2025-26. In 2025, 4,765 cases were reported compared to 4,607 in 2024, and 1,002 in 2013 when the commission was established. The report attributes this increase to improved legal literacy, stronger awareness campaigns, and reduced hesitancy among victims to report crimes. Thiruvananthapuram district had the highest number of cases at 689, followed by Kollam, Malappuram, and Kozhikode. Approximately 86% of the survivors were girls, with 55% falling in the 15-18 age group. Most offenses occurred in private or familiar settings such as homes, with 22% taking place in the survivor’s house and 13% in the offender’s home. The report highlights the need for life skills education to help children recognize and respond to sexual abuse.
Bias read (Center): The article presents statistical data and findings from an official report without overtly favoring any political stance. It focuses on the increasing number of POCSO cases in Kerala, attributing the trend to factors like improved awareness and reporting rather than making ideological judgments. The
