MARGAO: In an effort to combat the alarming rise in online sexual abuse of children in the State, a consultation was organised by the India Child Protection Fund (ICPF) in collaboration with the Goa State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (GSCPCR). Held at Fr. Agnel College, Pilar, the initiative brought together top officials, including Peter F Borges, Chairperson of GSCPCR, and O P Singh, former Director General of Police (DGP) for Uttar Pradesh and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ICPF.
Additional Director of Higher Education Dr Gervasio Mendes and Cyber Cell SP Akshat Kaushal were also present, among officials from NGOs and educational institutions.
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The consultation served as a platform to discuss multifaceted strategies to effectively address the growing threat of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) in Goa.
Borges, Chairperson of GSCPCR, emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach, collective action by all stakeholders, awareness campaigns at all levels, and strict implementation of the POCSO Act to tackle the CSAM issue. He stressed that children’s vulnerability has increased in the digital era, demanding a united effort.
ICPF CEO Singh underscored the importance of efficient cyber-space utilization while safeguarding resources and promoting innovation. Singh called for a time-bound prosecution framework, capacity building of law enforcement agencies, technological interventions for prevention and prosecution, and widespread public awareness as essential components to ensure child safety and deter offenders.
One of the major challenges highlighted during the consultation was decoding CSAM cases from source data often received in CD format.
Recognising the urgency of the issue, this state consultation aimed to foster ideas and strategies for implementing robust policies and legislative measures to safeguard children from cybercrimes. It also emphasised the need for a broader definition of child pornography.
ICPF has been at the forefront of efforts to enhance online child safety, particularly in combatting online child sexual abuse. The organisation collaborates with schools to raise awareness among children, parents, and teachers and partners with law enforcement agencies nationwide to combat online child sexual exploitation and abuse.
