Punjab Sees Over 5,600 Cases of Child Sexual Abuse in Five Years

LAHORE, Nov 12 — A new report has revealed a shocking rise in cases of sexual abuse involving minors in Punjab, with a total of 5,623 cases reported over the past five years. The report highlights an alarming increase in such incidents, with 1,082 cases of child sexual abuse reported in 2020, followed by 1,148 cases in 2021.

In 2022, 1,111 cases were registered, and the number rose again in 2023, reaching 1,205 cases. The first ten months of 2024 alone saw 1,077 incidents of child sexual abuse.

Out of the total 5,623 cases, 4,600 have been formally processed and sent for legal action, while 962 cases were canceled due to various reasons. The report underscores the ongoing issue of child abuse in the province and calls for more urgent measures to protect vulnerable children.

The rise in such cases is a serious concern, and authorities are under increasing pressure to address the issue and ensure better protection for children.