Team Herald
PANJIM: Pregnancies among minors has been on a constant rise in the State, raising a major public health concern. The State government’s Victim Assistance Unit (VAU) has sought for immediate intervention of the educational institutions.
“Teenage pregnancy was one area of concern for us during the last three years; the youngest victim we have encountered was a 10-year-old. We reiterate that there is a need to inform both boys and girls about sexuality so that they do not become victims or the perpetrator in future. Also, it is important to make teachers the first responders by conducting trainings in the areas of basic counseling, systems that are in place in Goa and the laws,” reads an extract of a detailed report by VAU Co-ordinator Emidio Pinho.
Pinho has further said that based on their experience with cases handled, the VAU has also devised a mobile app for women and children which can be accessed on an android phone. “This mobile app can be easily accessed and provides information relating to helpline numbers, judgments, authorities who could be approached for help and other information relating to children and women within the State of Goa,” he said.
As the report cites rise in teenage pregnancies, Pinho while speaking to Herald, revealed that on an average the VAU registers 1-2 cases every month. “Goa received 1-2 cases a month. We had a case of 10-year-old, who became the youngest victim. Since she was unable to carry owing to her age and health, her pregnancy had to be aborted upon advice from the doctors at Goa Medical College and Hospital and consent from her family,” he said.
Admitting that social media is one of reasons for increase in cases among teenagers, kidnapping has also become a cause of concern. Pinho added that in cases of kidnapping (no rape), young girl and boy eloping based on friendship or love affair on social media platform. “In many cases, victim girls have not met the boy in person. In one case, a minor girl was traced at Margao railway station fortunately before she boarded a train. The boy with whom she developed friendship on Instagram had sent her a train ticket. This is the impact of social media on young minds,” he said.
