Media Release

Udupi, Nov 3: An awareness on 'Child Sexual Abuse' (CSA) was held recently at Talapady. Sinchana Mahasangha representatives, German volunteers placed under CODP, Sofia and Leoni, Women Empowerment coordinator Shanthi Dsouza and animator Vani, were present at the session.

Shanthi Dsouza compered the programme, Jacintha welcomed the gathering, Hasina proposed the vote of thanks.

Lenet Deena Gonsalves, the programme manager of CODP being the resource person provided an informative talk on CSA with relevant cases and also highlights of the 'Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act 2012'.

The session began with an activity to demonstrate the helpless nature of children and the role of society in preventing CSA.

The information helped the participants gain knowledge of the body safety rules, forms of child sexual abuse, myths about CSA, of which many women were unaware. The session also concentrated on the role of parents in dealing with children when they report any form of abuse and the importance of seeking professional help.

The participants involved themselves freely in an interactive session; analyzed why CSA is common in India and derived explanations for the various myths. They were also informed about the necessity of explaining the problem to their children so as to prevent the abuse to a greater extent. The session concluded with the participants sharing their views on the issue.

Overall, the workshop was interesting, informative and inspiring.