Bengaluru, Jan 28 (NationPress) Karnataka's Minister for Women and Child Welfare, Laxmi Hebbalkar, on Wednesday urged the community to take a proactive stance against crimes targeting children, emphasizing the state government's unwavering dedication to their protection.

This appeal followed concerns raised by BJP MLA Y. Bharat Shetty regarding the alarming rise in child kidnapping and sexual abuse cases in the state, prompting a call for the government to implement effective measures to combat this issue.

During the State Assembly's Question and Answer segment, Shetty brought this pressing issue to light.

After receiving a detailed written response from the relevant minister, Shetty remarked, “I inquired about the statistics concerning physical and sexual abuse of minors. The minister provided a comprehensive two-page response detailing the existing laws and preventive measures. Nevertheless, the enforcement of these laws has serious shortcomings.”

“Each year, regardless of the ruling government, we observe a staggering 70 to 75 percent increase in kidnapping and sexual abuse incidents. Numerous regulations are in place, including the establishment of local bodies at the grassroots level to prevent such crimes. The government has mandated the implementation of the Child Protection Policy. Yet, the crime rate continues to escalate,” he expressed.

“What we are observing is a continuous surge in crimes annually. Although a child helpline is available, it is crucial to gather information about offenders, those apprehended and convicted, as well as repeat offenders, since incidents of child kidnapping and sexual abuse persist,” he added.

“These matters can sometimes take on a communal dimension. The Devadasi system has been effectively addressed by officials from various administrations. However, in religious establishments where oversight is singular, cases of child abuse and sexual exploitation are on the rise,” he pointed out.

“For instance, in madrasas. My intention is not to reflect bias. This issue should not be perceived through a religious lens. As a society, we must raise our voices. The minister's response does not adequately address the situation,” he stated.

In response to these concerns, Minister Hebbalkar said, “We have provided a thorough reply to the legislator. He argues that despite the existence of laws and helplines to prevent atrocities against children and women, crimes continue to escalate. As he pointed out, this issue should not be politicized. Criminal actions must be addressed irrespective of the perpetrators' backgrounds.”

“Regarding effective prevention, I must emphasize that while elected officials hold responsibilities, every citizen also has a crucial role. We are executing extensive awareness campaigns in schools, hostels, and public venues. We are promoting helplines, creating awareness about the POCSO Act, and organizing street performances to engage the public,” she stated.

“For the past month and a half, we have also been utilizing radio to disseminate information on these matters,” she added.

Speaker U.T. Khader interjected, asking the minister what further measures could be taken to enhance preventive strategies against crimes targeting children, suggesting that the legislator's proposals could be reviewed and discussed.

In reply, Minister Hebbalkar stated, “On November 28, 2025, the government established the Akka Force, which is currently operational in all 31 districts. Its primary mission is to prevent crimes against children and women. The force conducts visits to schools and religious institutions. I want to inform the public that the child helpline '1098' operates 24/7. The Akka Force helpline is 181, and the police department helpline is 112. It is essential for the public to keep these numbers accessible.”

“The Akka Force patrols for 12 hours daily and consists entirely of female personnel. Parents, children, and the public should reach out to the Akka Force if they encounter any issues. Crimes do not occur spontaneously; there are often early warning signs and underlying factors. Victims should approach us, and their information will remain confidential,” she explained.

Furthermore, she mentioned that a committee with representatives from seven departments has been established at the gram panchayat level to address these issues, and the government will intensify its efforts.

Bharat Shetty proposed that CCTV cameras should be mandatory in all schools and that institutions managed by a single individual should have a secondary supervisor, preferably a woman. He cautioned that despite the presence of the Akka Force, child kidnapping cases are still rising, warning that the failure to prevent such crimes would compromise the very essence of a civilized society.

Speaker U.T. Khader commended MLA Y. Bharat Shetty for providing constructive recommendations.