PANAJI: Goa State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (GSCPCR) has taken suo motu cognizance of media reports concerning the alleged sexual assault of a two-year-old girl in Mapusa on Sunday, expressing deep concern over the incident and directing police to ensure a thorough, impartial and time-bound investigation.
According to reports, the accused allegedly abducted the minor girl, daughter of a balloon vendor, and took her to an abandoned building near Lohia Garden in Mapusa, where the alleged sexual assault reportedly took place.
Taking note of the reports, the Commission directed the concerned police authorities to conduct a detailed investigation and initiate strict legal action against the accused under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, and other applicable laws.
The Commission strongly condemned all forms of violence, abuse and exploitation against children, stating that such incidents are extremely disturbing and underline the urgent need to strengthen child safety and protection mechanisms across Goa.
It further stressed that the child must receive all necessary medical assistance, psychological counselling, care and support during the course of treatment and investigation.
The Commission also emphasised the need to strictly protect the child's identity and privacy at every stage of the investigation and subsequent legal proceedings, in accordance with the law.
Appealing to parents, guardians, communities and other stakeholders, GSCPCR called for collective vigilance and efforts to create a safe and protective environment for every child.
