British and German authorities have been investigating a new suspect in connection with the disappearance of a child, 13 years ago. UK authorities on Wednesday described the development as a "significant new line of enquiry."

The parents of Madeleine McCann, who disappeared in Portugal in 2007 aged just three, said on Thursday that the announcement of a new suspect was a potentially very significant development in the 13-year worldwide hunt for their daughter.

McCann disappeared from her bedroom on May 3 during a family holiday in the Algarve while her parents were dining with friends nearby in the resort of Praia da Luz.

British and German police appealed on Wednesday for information about a German child sex offender currently imprisoned in Germany. He was 30 at the time of McCann's disappearance.

"Whatever the outcome of this particular line of investigation maybe, they do need to know what happened to their daughter to find peace and to bring whoever is responsible to justice," Clarence Mitchell, a spokesman for the family, told BBC radio.

Police want to speak to anyone who has relevant information on a 43-year old man, whom they did not name, or the movements of two vehicles linked to him during the period around the girl's disappearance. Both cars, a Volkswagen camper van and a Jaguar, are now in the possession of German police.

The suspect, German police said, lived in the Algarve between 1995 and 2007 -- and for several years in a house near Praia da Luz -- and burgled hotels and holiday flats as well as trading drugs.

German police said the man has been "sentenced on numerous occasions to prison terms for sexual abuse of children in the past."

They&nbsp;were treating the case as a suspected murder and had determined the method used to kill McCann. They did not believe the murder was pre-meditated and said the man was involved in crimes like break-ins and burglary.

UK authorities are offering a £20,000 (about $25,000) reward for information leading to the conviction of those responsible.

(with inputs)

British and German authorities have been investigating a new suspect in connection with the disappearance of a child, 13 years ago. UK authorities on Wednesday described the development as a "significant new line of enquiry.

British and German authorities have been investigating a new suspect in connection with the disappearance of a child, 13 years ago. UK authorities on Wednesday described the development as a "significant new line of enquiry." The parents of Madeleine McCann, who disappeared in Portugal in 2007 aged just three, said on Thursday that the announcement of a new suspect was a potentially very significant development in the 13-year worldwide hunt for their daughter. McCann disappeared from her bedroom on May 3 during a family holiday in the Algarve while her parents were dining with friends nearby in the resort of Praia da Luz. British and German police appealed on Wednesday for information about a German child sex offender currently imprisoned in Germany. He was 30 at the time of McCann's disappearance. "Whatever the outcome of this particular line of investigation maybe, they do need to know what happened to their daughter to find peace and to bring whoever is responsible to justice," Clarence Mitchell, a spokesman for the family, told BBC radio. Police want to speak to anyone who has relevant information on a 43-year old man, whom they did not name, or the movements of two vehicles linked to him during the period around the girl's disappearance. Both cars, a Volkswagen camper van and a Jaguar, are now in the possession of German police. The suspect, German police said, lived in the Algarve between 1995 and 2007 -- and for several years in a house near Praia da Luz -- and burgled hotels and holiday flats as well as trading drugs. German police said the man has been "sentenced on numerous occasions to prison terms for sexual abuse of children in the past." They were treating the case as a suspected murder and had determined the method used to kill McCann. They did not believe the murder was pre-meditated and said the man was involved in crimes like break-ins and burglary. UK authorities are offering a £20,000 (about $25,000) reward for information leading to the conviction of those responsible. (with inputs)

New suspect identified in 2007 case of disappearance of Madeleine McCann

With an alarming increase in the traffic for child pornorgraphy from India, National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR)&nbsp;has issued a notice to social media platforms like Google, Twitter and WhatsApp highlighting its concern.

NCPCR started an independent investigation on&nbsp;Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM), and based on the evidence procured from the investigation, the online platforms have been given till the end of April to respond back to the notice issued to them.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-1990-new-cases-india-witnesses-highest-coronavirus-cases-in-24-hour-period-294814">Also read:&nbsp;With 1,990 new cases, India witnesses highest coronavirus cases in 24-hour period</a>

The increase in traffic has taken place during the lockdown period, according to the report.

The report by India Child Protection Fund (ICPF) titled 'Child Sexual Abuse Material in India'. The research revealed demand of obscene content in over 100 cities in India, mainly&nbsp;New Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bhubaneswar and Indore' New Delhi topped the list. The overall demand for child pornography was an average of 5 million per month in 100 cities on the public web during December 2019, which has now alarmingly spiked.

"ICPF has warned that this indicates millions of paedophiles, child rapists and child pornography addicts have migrated online, making the Internet extremely unsafe for children. Without stringent action, this could result in a drastic rise in sexual crimes against children," said&nbsp;ICPF.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/shoes-replace-protesters-as-swiss-climate-activists-obey-virus-restrictions-294610#making-a-point-by-respecting-the-virus!-294598">Also read:&nbsp;Shoes replace protesters as Swiss climate activists obey virus restrictions</a>

In the notice sent to Twitter India, NCPCR said, "It is seen that as per your standard terms and conditions, a person of 13 years and above is eligible to open an account on Twitter. If you are allowing children at the age of 13 to open an account, the commission is of the view that you can't allow the other users to publish, propagate pornographic material, links etc. on Twitter. Another concern of the commission is that the accessibility of the pornographic material to the children through these links on Twitter."

In a similar notice to Google India, NCPCR wrote, "It is noticed during inquiry that pornographic material is accessible through the apps available on Google Play Store. By mere downloading these apps from the platform the user can access such material. This is enabling accessibility of the children to such material. There is also possibility that the CSAM is also available on these apps making it much grave issue."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-coronavirus-fight-is-people-driven-says-pm-narendra-modi-in-mann-ki-baat-294821">Also read:&nbsp;India's coronavirus fight is people-driven, says PM Narendra Modi in 'Mann Ki Baat'</a>

During the investigation, it was noticed that&nbsp;certain links are&nbsp;available to join 'encrypted WhatsApp groups' and the CSAM and pornographic material is easily present in these groups. These links were available on the internet, and anyone could join these encrypted WhatsApp groups and access CSAM content.

"The links to these groups were found to be propagated by various handles on Twitter. The commission is of the view that propagating links of these WhatsApp groups on Twitter handles is a serious matter,' NCPCR informed WhatsApp India in its notice.

According to the ICPF, there has been an increase in demand for phrases like 'child porn', 'sexy child', and 'teen sex videos', as noticed by online data monitoring websites.

Data from Pornhub also revealed&nbsp;that traffic from India has increased by 95 per cent between March 24 and March 26 2020, as compared to their average traffic, the ICPF claimed.

Addressing the media,&nbsp;Nivedita Ahuja, spokesperson for the ICPF said,&nbsp;"This is a blatant violation of the directions of the Honourable Supreme Court, and a violation of national policy. Pornographic websites are playing hide-and-seek with Indian law and judiciary by simply changing their website URLs."

NCPCR expressed its concern over the safety of minors in this lockdown period after the investigation revealed the chilling reality of CSAM content in the country.

With an alarming increase in the traffic for child pornorgraphy from India, National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has issued a notice to social media platforms like Google, Twitter and WhatsApp highlighting its concern.

With an alarming increase in the traffic for child pornorgraphy from India, National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has issued a notice to social media platforms like Google, Twitter and WhatsApp highlighting its concern. NCPCR started an independent investigation on Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM), and based on the evidence procured from the investigation, the online platforms have been given till the end of April to respond back to the notice issued to them. Also read: With 1,990 new cases, India witnesses highest coronavirus cases in 24-hour period The increase in traffic has taken place during the lockdown period, according to the report. The report by India Child Protection Fund (ICPF) titled 'Child Sexual Abuse Material in India'. The research revealed demand of obscene content in over 100 cities in India, mainly New Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bhubaneswar and Indore' New Delhi topped the list. The overall demand for child pornography was an average of 5 million per month in 100 cities on the public web during December 2019, which has now alarmingly spiked. "ICPF has warned that this indicates millions of paedophiles, child rapists and child pornography addicts have migrated online, making the Internet extremely unsafe for children. Without stringent action, this could result in a drastic rise in sexual crimes against children," said ICPF. Also read: Shoes replace protesters as Swiss climate activists obey virus restrictions In the notice sent to Twitter India, NCPCR said, "It is seen that as per your standard terms and conditions, a person of 13 years and above is eligible to open an account on Twitter. If you are allowing children at the age of 13 to open an account, the commission is of the view that you can't allow the other users to publish, propagate pornographic material, links etc. on Twitter. Another concern of the commission is that the accessibility of the pornographic material to the children through these links on Twitter." In a similar notice to Google India, NCPCR wrote, "It is noticed during inquiry that pornographic material is accessible through the apps available on Google Play Store. By mere downloading these apps from the platform the user can access such material. This is enabling accessibility of the children to such material. There is also possibility that the CSAM is also available on these apps making it much grave issue." Also read: India's coronavirus fight is people-driven, says PM Narendra Modi in 'Mann Ki Baat' During the investigation, it was noticed that certain links are available to join 'encrypted WhatsApp groups' and the CSAM and pornographic material is easily present in these groups. These links were available on the internet, and anyone could join these encrypted WhatsApp groups and access CSAM content. "The links to these groups were found to be propagated by various handles on Twitter. The commission is of the view that propagating links of these WhatsApp groups on Twitter handles is a serious matter,' NCPCR informed WhatsApp India in its notice. According to the ICPF, there has been an increase in demand for phrases like 'child porn', 'sexy child', and 'teen sex videos', as noticed by online data monitoring websites. Data from Pornhub also revealed that traffic from India has increased by 95 per cent between March 24 and March 26 2020, as compared to their average traffic, the ICPF claimed. Addressing the media, Nivedita Ahuja, spokesperson for the ICPF said, "This is a blatant violation of the directions of the Honourable Supreme Court, and a violation of national policy. Pornographic websites are playing hide-and-seek with Indian law and judiciary by simply changing their website URLs." NCPCR expressed its concern over the safety of minors in this lockdown period after the investigation revealed the chilling reality of CSAM content in the country.

95% increase in online traffic of child sexual abuse content in India; NCPCR issues notice

A two-year international investigation into a website where users pay for child abuse material has lead to the arrest of 16 people in Australia.

According to Xinhua news agency, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) were also able to remove four Australian children from further harm.

The investigation was initiated by US Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). It had provided information to international police and child protection organisations.

HSI uncovered an illicit marketplace where users paid for access to child abuse material, and were able to provide user data leading to arrests in several countries including the US and Australia.

Australia then executed 18 search warrants, arresting 16 people on 738 charges and removing four children.

Perpetrators continued to act via extensive online networks, regardless of the considerable harm inflicted on victims.

HSI Australia Attache Adam Parks said the current COVID-19 pandemic may place children at even higher risk.

A two-year international investigation into a website where users pay for child abuse material has lead to the arrest of 16 people in Australia. According to Xinhua news agency, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) were also able to remove four Australian children from further harm.

A two-year international investigation into a website where users pay for child abuse material has lead to the arrest of 16 people in Australia. According to Xinhua news agency, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) were also able to remove four Australian children from further harm. The investigation was initiated by US Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). It had provided information to international police and child protection organisations. HSI uncovered an illicit marketplace where users paid for access to child abuse material, and were able to provide user data leading to arrests in several countries including the US and Australia. Australia then executed 18 search warrants, arresting 16 people on 738 charges and removing four children. Perpetrators continued to act via extensive online networks, regardless of the considerable harm inflicted on victims. HSI Australia Attache Adam Parks said the current COVID-19 pandemic may place children at even higher risk.

Two-year probe into child abuse website leads to arrest of 16 in Australia

Australia's High Court on Thursday delayed judgement in Cardinal George Pell's appeal against child sex abuse convictions, with a decision now not expected for months.

The court adjourned after two days of dense legal argument over the case of the 78-year-old former Vatican treasurer, who is trying to overturn a six-year sentence for sexually assaulting two 13-year-old choirboys in the 1990s.

Pell, who once helped elect popes, is the highest-ranking Catholic Church official ever convicted of child sex crimes.

He was not present for the two-day hearing and will remain behind bars while seven of Australia’s top judges consider his fate.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/child-sex-conviction-wrong-says-lawyers-of-ex-vatican-treasurer-pell-285592"> Child sex conviction 'wrong', says lawyers of ex- Vatican treasurer Pell</a>

A court official told the source it typically took between three to six months for a decision in cases where judgement had been reserved.

Pell's lawyer, Bret Walker, on Thursday urged them to quash the conviction rather than order a retrial, saying it was "the power and duty of this court".

He also accused the prosecution of an "inappropriate and over-engineered attempt at improvisation to make matters fit that won't fit".

The defence has argued Pell would not have had the time or opportunity to molest the boys in the sacristy, which would have been a "hive of activity" after Mass.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australias-cardinal-george-pell-remanded-into-custody-for-child-sex-offences-199969">Australia's Cardinal George Pell remanded into custody for child sex offences</a>

Judges pressed prosecutor Kerri Judd on many of her arguments, including when she suggested the time it would have taken Pell to abuse the boys was "not precise" or "clockwork", despite lower courts previously hearing the offending took place in a five-to-six minute period.

In stark contrast to Wednesday's hearing, when Walker was largely able to speak uninterrupted, the judges grilled the prosecutor at length.

University of Melbourne law professor Jeremy Gans said the questioning was notable for being "mostly directed at arguments that support Pell's argument for acquittal and were not particularly sympathetic to the prosecution".

"It's always difficult to know why they ask those questions but, to the extent that you can read anything into those questions, every single judge at some point was asking questions that seemed to be indicating a possible view of acquittal," he told reporters outside the courtroom.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-accepts-resignation-of-cardinal-barbarin-over-sex-abuse-case-284809">Pope Francis accepts resignation of cardinal Barbarin over sex abuse case</a>

The case relied solely on the testimony of Pell's surviving victim, as the other -- who is not known to have ever spoken of the abuse -- died of a drug overdose in 2014. Neither man can be identified for legal reasons.

It has proved highly divisive in Australia, attracting protesters and supporters on Thursday to the High Court in Canberra, where they carried rival signs that read “Criminal Pell: paedophile icon" and "We love you, Cardinal George Pell and genuine victims."

Local media reported a Melbourne man was charged Wednesday with threatening to kill Pell and making a bomb threat.

Pell has been removed from top Church bodies by the Vatican but remains in the priesthood.

The Vatican previously said it would avoid launching an investigation into his conduct until after all legal avenues are exhausted.

Australia's High Court on Thursday delayed judgement in Cardinal George Pell's appeal against child sex abuse convictions, with a decision now not expected for months.

Australia's High Court on Thursday delayed judgement in Cardinal George Pell's appeal against child sex abuse convictions, with a decision now not expected for months. The court adjourned after two days of dense legal argument over the case of the 78-year-old former Vatican treasurer, who is trying to overturn a six-year sentence for sexually assaulting two 13-year-old choirboys in the 1990s. Pell, who once helped elect popes, is the highest-ranking Catholic Church official ever convicted of child sex crimes. He was not present for the two-day hearing and will remain behind bars while seven of Australia’s top judges consider his fate. Also read: Child sex conviction 'wrong', says lawyers of ex- Vatican treasurer Pell A court official told the source it typically took between three to six months for a decision in cases where judgement had been reserved. Pell's lawyer, Bret Walker, on Thursday urged them to quash the conviction rather than order a retrial, saying it was "the power and duty of this court". He also accused the prosecution of an "inappropriate and over-engineered attempt at improvisation to make matters fit that won't fit". The defence has argued Pell would not have had the time or opportunity to molest the boys in the sacristy, which would have been a "hive of activity" after Mass. Also see: Australia's Cardinal George Pell remanded into custody for child sex offences Judges pressed prosecutor Kerri Judd on many of her arguments, including when she suggested the time it would have taken Pell to abuse the boys was "not precise" or "clockwork", despite lower courts previously hearing the offending took place in a five-to-six minute period. In stark contrast to Wednesday's hearing, when Walker was largely able to speak uninterrupted, the judges grilled the prosecutor at length. University of Melbourne law professor Jeremy Gans said the questioning was notable for being "mostly directed at arguments that support Pell's argument for acquittal and were not particularly sympathetic to the prosecution". "It's always difficult to know why they ask those questions but, to the extent that you can read anything into those questions, every single judge at some point was asking questions that seemed to be indicating a possible view of acquittal," he told reporters outside the courtroom. Also read: Pope Francis accepts resignation of cardinal Barbarin over sex abuse case The case relied solely on the testimony of Pell's surviving victim, as the other -- who is not known to have ever spoken of the abuse -- died of a drug overdose in 2014. Neither man can be identified for legal reasons. It has proved highly divisive in Australia, attracting protesters and supporters on Thursday to the High Court in Canberra, where they carried rival signs that read “Criminal Pell: paedophile icon" and "We love you, Cardinal George Pell and genuine victims." Local media reported a Melbourne man was charged Wednesday with threatening to kill Pell and making a bomb threat. Pell has been removed from top Church bodies by the Vatican but remains in the priesthood. The Vatican previously said it would avoid launching an investigation into his conduct until after all legal avenues are exhausted.

Australian court delays final verdict on Cardinal Pell appeal

Pakistan has seen two very disturbing developments this week, its Parliament passed a resolution demanding public hanging of child abusers

This is a violation of the United Nations rule, but the majority of Pakistan's Parliamentarians backed it.

A court in Pakistan said that men can marry underage girls as long as they have reached their menstrual age. The court was hearing a case of forced conversion.

A 14-year-old catholic girl was abducted, forcefully converted and married to a Muslim man. The court said, "The marriage was valid because the girl already had her first period."

According to these developments in Islamabad, it's not a crime when a child is forced to marry her abductor, but child abusers should be hanged in public.

This raises some serious concerns - does Pakistan have a different definition of child abuse for minorities? Or is the system confused?

Child abuse is a haunting reality of Pakistan. In 2018, the case of a 6-year-old girl shocked the world - her rape and murder led to massive protests.

The data is chilling. In 2018, Pakistan reported over 3,800 cases of crimes against children. There were over 900 cases of abduction, 452 cases of missing children, over 500 cases of rape, almost 600 cases of sodomy,&nbsp;over 300 cases of attempted rape and 130 cases of child marriages.

In short, every day there are at least 12 cases of crime against children, and these are only the ones that are reported and registered.

56 per cent of the victims are girls and 44 per cent boys. It seems the country is not even thinking of preventive measures.

It only wants a gory spectacle, the public hanging of convicts. The Parliamentary resolution referred to the Zainab Ansari case.

But the parliamentarians forgot something. Zainab's rapist too was executed and it did not stop the rape of young girls and boys. 
&nbsp;

Pakistan has seen two very disturbing developments this week, its Parliament passed a resolution demanding public hanging of child abusers This is a violation of the United Nations rule, but the majority of Pakistan's Parliamentarians backed it.

Pakistan has seen two very disturbing developments this week, its Parliament passed a resolution demanding public hanging of child abusers This is a violation of the United Nations rule, but the majority of Pakistan's Parliamentarians backed it. A court in Pakistan said that men can marry underage girls as long as they have reached their menstrual age. The court was hearing a case of forced conversion. A 14-year-old catholic girl was abducted, forcefully converted and married to a Muslim man. The court said, "The marriage was valid because the girl already had her first period." According to these developments in Islamabad, it's not a crime when a child is forced to marry her abductor, but child abusers should be hanged in public. This raises some serious concerns - does Pakistan have a different definition of child abuse for minorities? Or is the system confused? Child abuse is a haunting reality of Pakistan. In 2018, the case of a 6-year-old girl shocked the world - her rape and murder led to massive protests. The data is chilling. In 2018, Pakistan reported over 3,800 cases of crimes against children. There were over 900 cases of abduction, 452 cases of missing children, over 500 cases of rape, almost 600 cases of sodomy, over 300 cases of attempted rape and 130 cases of child marriages. In short, every day there are at least 12 cases of crime against children, and these are only the ones that are reported and registered. 56 per cent of the victims are girls and 44 per cent boys. It seems the country is not even thinking of preventive measures. It only wants a gory spectacle, the public hanging of convicts. The Parliamentary resolution referred to the Zainab Ansari case. But the parliamentarians forgot something. Zainab's rapist too was executed and it did not stop the rape of young girls and boys.

What's Pakistan's definition of child abuse?

At least 175 children were sexually assaulted by priests belonging to an ultra-conservative Mexican branch of the Roman Catholic Church, according to an internal report published Saturday.

The founder of the Legionaries of Christ, Marcial Maciel, abused as many as 60 children, with a total of 33 priests or deacons acknowledged to have committed sexual assaults against minors since 1941, the document says.

The findings of the report,&nbsp;written by a commission created in June by the director-general of the group, Eduardo Robles-Gil -- spans from the group's founding in 1941 until December 16, 2019.

"The vast majority of the victims were adolescent boys between 11 and 16 years old," the statement said, published on ceroabusos.org, which is supported by the Legionaries of Christ.

The report notes that 18 of the 33 individuals who committed abuses are still part of the organization, but says they have been removed from tasks connected to the public or minors.&nbsp;

Fourteen of the 33 had themselves been victims of the Legionaries, which the report said highlights the existence of "chains of abuse" where "a victim of a Legionnaire, over time, becomes, in turn, an aggressor".

"There are probably more cases of abuse than those in the report and the statistics will have to be updated regularly," it added.

Ceroabusos also notes that a process of "reparation and reconciliation" with 45 victims is taking place while acknowledging that it has yet to extend it to the others.

Maciel, who died in 2008, was ordered to retire to a life of prayer and penitence by Pope Benedict XVI in 2006 after facing years of allegations that he had sexually abused boys and young men. He never faced his accusers.

At least 175 children were sexually assaulted by priests belonging to an ultra-conservative Mexican branch of the Roman Catholic Church, according to an internal report published Saturday.

At least 175 children were sexually assaulted by priests belonging to an ultra-conservative Mexican branch of the Roman Catholic Church, according to an internal report published Saturday. The founder of the Legionaries of Christ, Marcial Maciel, abused as many as 60 children, with a total of 33 priests or deacons acknowledged to have committed sexual assaults against minors since 1941, the document says. The findings of the report, written by a commission created in June by the director-general of the group, Eduardo Robles-Gil -- spans from the group's founding in 1941 until December 16, 2019. "The vast majority of the victims were adolescent boys between 11 and 16 years old," the statement said, published on ceroabusos.org, which is supported by the Legionaries of Christ. The report notes that 18 of the 33 individuals who committed abuses are still part of the organization, but says they have been removed from tasks connected to the public or minors. Fourteen of the 33 had themselves been victims of the Legionaries, which the report said highlights the existence of "chains of abuse" where "a victim of a Legionnaire, over time, becomes, in turn, an aggressor". "There are probably more cases of abuse than those in the report and the statistics will have to be updated regularly," it added. Ceroabusos also notes that a process of "reparation and reconciliation" with 45 victims is taking place while acknowledging that it has yet to extend it to the others. Maciel, who died in 2008, was ordered to retire to a life of prayer and penitence by Pope Benedict XVI in 2006 after facing years of allegations that he had sexually abused boys and young men. He never faced his accusers.

175 children abused by Mexican branch of Catholic Church: Report

Spanish police today arrested seventeen people, mostly teenage boys for sharing ''extremely violent'' images of child pornography on social networking application Whatsapp.

According to the police, the investigation took two years and spanned three continents.

Spain's national police have detained 33 people in raids across 11 countries.

Besides 17 people who were arrested in Spain, nine more are currently being held for investigation, with a total of 14 teenage boys involved.

They were arrested for storing and sharing pornographic files, which in some cases were "extremely serious", Casas said.

After being tipped off via emails, police discovered "a Whatsapp group formed by minors, in which several participants had normalised the existence of child pornography and the sexual abuse of other minors".

Casas indicated some involved the graphic abuse and rape of very young children, including "babies of just a few months up to children aged 11 or 12".

Besides sharing files, the perpetrators had produced ''stickers'', which are small, digital images akin to emojis that can be readily pushed online. These stickers showed ''very young children being abused''.

In Spain, most arrested were minors, with the youngest just 15, police spokesman Eduardo Casas told AFP.

20 people were arrested in Europe, 17 in Spain, and three others in Italy, France and the United Kingdom.

A further 10 were arrested in Latin America, four in Ecuador, two in Uruguay, two in Peru and two in Costa Rica. Another three were picked up in India, Pakistan and Syria.

(With inputs from AFP)

Spanish police today arrested seventeen people, mostly teenage boys for sharing ''extremely violent'' images of child pornography on social networking application Whatsapp.

Spanish police today arrested seventeen people, mostly teenage boys for sharing ''extremely violent'' images of child pornography on social networking application Whatsapp. According to the police, the investigation took two years and spanned three continents. Spain's national police have detained 33 people in raids across 11 countries. Besides 17 people who were arrested in Spain, nine more are currently being held for investigation, with a total of 14 teenage boys involved. They were arrested for storing and sharing pornographic files, which in some cases were "extremely serious", Casas said. After being tipped off via emails, police discovered "a Whatsapp group formed by minors, in which several participants had normalised the existence of child pornography and the sexual abuse of other minors". Casas indicated some involved the graphic abuse and rape of very young children, including "babies of just a few months up to children aged 11 or 12". Besides sharing files, the perpetrators had produced ''stickers'', which are small, digital images akin to emojis that can be readily pushed online. These stickers showed ''very young children being abused''. In Spain, most arrested were minors, with the youngest just 15, police spokesman Eduardo Casas told AFP. 20 people were arrested in Europe, 17 in Spain, and three others in Italy, France and the United Kingdom. A further 10 were arrested in Latin America, four in Ecuador, two in Uruguay, two in Peru and two in Costa Rica. Another three were picked up in India, Pakistan and Syria. (With inputs from AFP)

Many arrested worldwide as Spain police smash global pedophile ring

A complaint has been filed against star Pakistan keeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan for offering prayers (namaz) on the cricket field during the game against the Netherlands in World Cup 2023. Vineet Jindal, an advocate in the Supreme Court of India, wrote to the ICC, saying Rizwan offering prayers during the match ‘raises questions about the spirit of the game.’

“This is a complaint about Pakistan Cricket Player, Mohammad Rizwan, who was seen offering namaz on the cricket field during his team’s opening match of the ongoing ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023 on Friday (Oct 6) against the Netherlands in Hyderabad,” reads the complaint filed by Jindal with the ICC chairman Greg Barclay.

“The act of Mohammad Rizwan when he read namaz on the cricket field amid many Indians is symbolic of the intentional depiction of his religion, which stands against the spirit of the sports,” it added.

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In the complaint he filed, the lawyer said Rizwan offering the prayers defeated the whole purpose of the spirit of cricket, further questioning his ideology behind it. He added that by doing so, Rizwan was purposely depicting his religion.&nbsp;

Vineet posted the photo of his complaint on his social media handle, receiving attention from everywhere.

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खेल की भावना को जीवित रखने के लिए, अधिवक्ता विनीत जिंदल ने 6 अक्टूबर 2023 को क्रिकेट मैच के दौरान "नमाज़" की पेशकश करने के लिए पाकिस्तान क्रिकेट टीम के विकेटकीपर और बल्लेबाज मोहम्मद रिज़वान के खिलाफ अंतर्राष्ट्रीय क्रिकेट परिषद में शिकायत दर्ज की। 
शिकायत की कॉपी आईसीसी एथिक्स… <a href="https://t.co/w2Ezm6KaTy">pic.twitter.com/w2Ezm6KaTy</a>
— Adv.Vineet Jindal (@vineetJindal19) <a href="https://twitter.com/vineetJindal19/status/1713086170102710678?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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“This very act of the player raises questions about the spirit of the match and raises a question of the ideology, the player follows while playing the match. The act of displaying his religion by Mohammed Rizwan purposefully depicts his intent to message that he is a Muslim, defeating the spirit of sports. Rizwan was seen offering prayers amid the field while his teammates were waiting for the drinks during the break,” the complaint read.

Following his match-winning hundred against Sri Lanka the other day, Rizwan dedicated his knock (on X – previously known as Twitter) to the people of Gaza, putting himself in a controversial sphere, given the dos and don’ts laid by the cricket’s governing body.

“The act of representation of his religion by Mohammed Rizwan in the field and further followed by his statement in his press conference regarding the dedication of his victory to the people of Gaza further attests to his religious and political ideology,” the statement read.

Meanwhile, Pakistan have won two and lost one in three matches played in this World Cup so far. They will next face Australia in Bengaluru on Friday (Oct 20).&nbsp;

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A complaint has been filed against star Pakistan keeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan for offering prayers (namaz) on the cricket field during the game against the Netherlands in World Cup 2023.

A complaint has been filed against star Pakistan keeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan for offering prayers (namaz) on the cricket field during the game against the Netherlands in World Cup 2023. Vineet Jindal, an advocate in the Supreme Court of India, wrote to the ICC, saying Rizwan offering prayers during the match ‘raises questions about the spirit of the game.’ “This is a complaint about Pakistan Cricket Player, Mohammad Rizwan, who was seen offering namaz on the cricket field during his team’s opening match of the ongoing ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023 on Friday (Oct 6) against the Netherlands in Hyderabad,” reads the complaint filed by Jindal with the ICC chairman Greg Barclay. “The act of Mohammad Rizwan when he read namaz on the cricket field amid many Indians is symbolic of the intentional depiction of his religion, which stands against the spirit of the sports,” it added. ALSO READ: Rashid Latif tears into Pakistan cricket setup, blames political vendetta, aggressive changes for poor show In the complaint he filed, the lawyer said Rizwan offering the prayers defeated the whole purpose of the spirit of cricket, further questioning his ideology behind it. He added that by doing so, Rizwan was purposely depicting his religion. Vineet posted the photo of his complaint on his social media handle, receiving attention from everywhere. खेल की भावना को जीवित रखने के लिए, अधिवक्ता विनीत जिंदल ने 6 अक्टूबर 2023 को क्रिकेट मैच के दौरान "नमाज़" की पेशकश करने के लिए पाकिस्तान क्रिकेट टीम के विकेटकीपर और बल्लेबाज मोहम्मद रिज़वान के खिलाफ अंतर्राष्ट्रीय क्रिकेट परिषद में शिकायत दर्ज की। शिकायत की कॉपी आईसीसी एथिक्स… pic.twitter.com/w2Ezm6KaTy — Adv.Vineet Jindal (@vineetJindal19) October 14, 2023 × “This very act of the player raises questions about the spirit of the match and raises a question of the ideology, the player follows while playing the match. The act of displaying his religion by Mohammed Rizwan purposefully depicts his intent to message that he is a Muslim, defeating the spirit of sports. Rizwan was seen offering prayers amid the field while his teammates were waiting for the drinks during the break,” the complaint read. Following his match-winning hundred against Sri Lanka the other day, Rizwan dedicated his knock (on X – previously known as Twitter) to the people of Gaza, putting himself in a controversial sphere, given the dos and don’ts laid by the cricket’s governing body. “The act of representation of his religion by Mohammed Rizwan in the field and further followed by his statement in his press conference regarding the dedication of his victory to the people of Gaza further attests to his religious and political ideology,” the statement read. Meanwhile, Pakistan have won two and lost one in three matches played in this World Cup so far. They will next face Australia in Bengaluru on Friday (Oct 20). WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Interpol plans to condemn encryption spread citing sexual predators: Sources

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-launches-new-company-logo-260130">Facebook Inc</a>&nbsp;removed 3.2 billion fake accounts between April and September this year, along with millions of posts depicting child abuse and suicide, according to its latest content moderation report released on Wednesday.

That more than doubles the number of fake accounts taken down during the same period last year, when 1.55 billion accounts were removed, according to the report.&nbsp;

The world's biggest social network also disclosed for the first time how many posts it removed from popular photo-sharing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/instagram-test-of-hiding-likes-on-app-to-start-rolling-out-in-united-states-261011">app Instagram</a>, which has been identified as a growing area of concern about fake news by disinformation researchers.

Proactive detection of violating content was lower across all categories on Instagram than on Facebook's flagship app, where the company initially implemented many of its detection tools, the company said in its fourth content moderation report.

For example, the company said it proactively detected content affiliated with terrorist organizations 98.5 per cent&nbsp;of the time on Facebook and 92.2 per cent&nbsp;of the time on Instagram.

It removed more than 11.6 million pieces of content depicting child nudity and sexual exploitation of children on Facebook and 754,000 pieces on Instagram during the third quarter.

Facebook also added data on actions it took around content involving self-harm for the first time in the report. It said it had removed about 2.5 million posts in the third quarter that depicted or encouraged suicide or self-injury.

The company also removed about 4.4 million pieces involving drug sales during the quarter, it said in a blog post.&nbsp;

Facebook Inc removed 3.2 billion fake accounts between April and September this year, along with millions of posts depicting child abuse and suicide, according to its latest content moderation report released on Wednesday.

Facebook Inc removed 3.2 billion fake accounts between April and September this year, along with millions of posts depicting child abuse and suicide, according to its latest content moderation report released on Wednesday. That more than doubles the number of fake accounts taken down during the same period last year, when 1.55 billion accounts were removed, according to the report. The world's biggest social network also disclosed for the first time how many posts it removed from popular photo-sharing app Instagram, which has been identified as a growing area of concern about fake news by disinformation researchers. Proactive detection of violating content was lower across all categories on Instagram than on Facebook's flagship app, where the company initially implemented many of its detection tools, the company said in its fourth content moderation report. For example, the company said it proactively detected content affiliated with terrorist organizations 98.5 per cent of the time on Facebook and 92.2 per cent of the time on Instagram. It removed more than 11.6 million pieces of content depicting child nudity and sexual exploitation of children on Facebook and 754,000 pieces on Instagram during the third quarter. Facebook also added data on actions it took around content involving self-harm for the first time in the report. It said it had removed about 2.5 million posts in the third quarter that depicted or encouraged suicide or self-injury. The company also removed about 4.4 million pieces involving drug sales during the quarter, it said in a blog post.

Facebook removes 3.2 billion fake accounts, millions of child abuse posts

Kerala government on Tuesday decided to form a committee headed by the chief secretary to look into cases related to sexual exploitation of children under the Prevention of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO).

This comes in the wake of the recent acquittal of three accused in a POCSO case which pertains to the deaths of two sisters who were allegedly sexually abused and killed in Walayar town of Palakkad in 2017.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan chaired a high-level meeting to discuss POCSO cases and decided to form a committee under chief secretary Tom Jose with the aim to ensure efficient handling of cases and their disposal at the earliest.

Members of the committee will include secretaries of home, education, health, social justice, law, SC/ST development departments. The committee will submit its report to the state government once in two months.

The chief minister said that counseling facilities should be made available for children in all schools and they should be encouraged to speak about any assault, including any incident inside their houses.

Training will be given to counsellors in this regard and an awareness of the law, he said.

Vijayan added that proper sex education should be included in the school syllabus and directed police and excise authorities to ensure that the sale of alcohol and narcotic substances should be strictly prohibited near schools.

Tuesday`s high-level meeting also decided to strengthen the cyber forensic laboratory to help prevent crimes against children.

The chief minister also said that police and social department should work to identify houses where women stay alone (mother and daughters) and such families should be given protection.

Among other points raised in the meeting was about spreading awareness among parents to avoid their children being subjected to any kind of violence.

"Education department should ensure this and the PTA meetings in schools should be used for this. Also, the child welfare officers in every police station must be in regular contact with schools in their area," Vijayan said. He said that more funds will be allowed to set up POCSO courts to dispose of cases at the earliest.

Vijayan said that consideration should be given when children come with complaints and to handle them psychologically.&nbsp;

Kerala government on Tuesday decided to form a committee headed by the chief secretary to look into cases related to sexual exploitation of children under the Prevention of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO).

Kerala government on Tuesday decided to form a committee headed by the chief secretary to look into cases related to sexual exploitation of children under the Prevention of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO). This comes in the wake of the recent acquittal of three accused in a POCSO case which pertains to the deaths of two sisters who were allegedly sexually abused and killed in Walayar town of Palakkad in 2017. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan chaired a high-level meeting to discuss POCSO cases and decided to form a committee under chief secretary Tom Jose with the aim to ensure efficient handling of cases and their disposal at the earliest. Members of the committee will include secretaries of home, education, health, social justice, law, SC/ST development departments. The committee will submit its report to the state government once in two months. The chief minister said that counseling facilities should be made available for children in all schools and they should be encouraged to speak about any assault, including any incident inside their houses. Training will be given to counsellors in this regard and an awareness of the law, he said. Vijayan added that proper sex education should be included in the school syllabus and directed police and excise authorities to ensure that the sale of alcohol and narcotic substances should be strictly prohibited near schools. Tuesday`s high-level meeting also decided to strengthen the cyber forensic laboratory to help prevent crimes against children. The chief minister also said that police and social department should work to identify houses where women stay alone (mother and daughters) and such families should be given protection. Among other points raised in the meeting was about spreading awareness among parents to avoid their children being subjected to any kind of violence. "Education department should ensure this and the PTA meetings in schools should be used for this. Also, the child welfare officers in every police station must be in regular contact with schools in their area," Vijayan said. He said that more funds will be allowed to set up POCSO courts to dispose of cases at the earliest. Vijayan said that consideration should be given when children come with complaints and to handle them psychologically.

Kerala government toughens stance on sexual assualt cases against minors

United Kingdom and United States&nbsp;authorities investigating a "dark web" child pornography site run from South Korea on Wednesday announced the arrest of 337 suspects in 38 countries.

Britain's National Crime Agency (NCA) said the "Welcome to Video" site contained 250,000 videos that were downloaded a million times by users across the world.

"The website monetised the sexual abuse of children and was one of the first to offer sickening videos for sale using the cryptocurrency bitcoin," the NCA said in a statement.

"The arrests were made in 38 countries including the UK, Ireland, America, South Korea, Germany, Spain, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the Czech Republic and Canada."

The investigations also involved South Korean National Police and Germany’s Federal Criminal Police.

In Washington, the US Department of Justice said separately the site operated "the largest child sexual exploitation market by volume of content" when it was taken down.

"Welcome to Video" operated on the so-called "dark web", which can only be accessed by special software and is widely used to traffic various illegal content and products.

The NCA said seven men have already been convicted in Britain since the first suspect was arrested in 2017.

One man "was jailed for 22 years for raping a five-year-old boy and appearing on Welcome To Video sexually abusing a three-year-old girl."

The collaboration between global law enforcement agencies was sparked by the British investigation into a British scientist for child sex offences, according to the NCA, which deals with serious and organised crime, as well as cybercrime.

Matthew Falder was sentenced to 25 years in jail in 2017 after admitting 137 counts of online abuse, including the encouragement of child rape and even the abuse of a baby.

The US Justice Department indicted the site's alleged operator,&nbsp;identified as 23-year-old South Korean national Jong-Woo Son,&nbsp;on nine counts.

"Darknet sites that profit from the sexual exploitation of children are among the vilest and reprehensible forms of criminal behaviour," said US Assistant Attorney General Brian Benczkowski.

United Kingdom and United States authorities investigating a "dark web" child pornography site run from South Korea on Wednesday announced the arrest of 337 suspects in 38 countries.

United Kingdom and United States authorities investigating a "dark web" child pornography site run from South Korea on Wednesday announced the arrest of 337 suspects in 38 countries. Britain's National Crime Agency (NCA) said the "Welcome to Video" site contained 250,000 videos that were downloaded a million times by users across the world. "The website monetised the sexual abuse of children and was one of the first to offer sickening videos for sale using the cryptocurrency bitcoin," the NCA said in a statement. "The arrests were made in 38 countries including the UK, Ireland, America, South Korea, Germany, Spain, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the Czech Republic and Canada." The investigations also involved South Korean National Police and Germany’s Federal Criminal Police. In Washington, the US Department of Justice said separately the site operated "the largest child sexual exploitation market by volume of content" when it was taken down. "Welcome to Video" operated on the so-called "dark web", which can only be accessed by special software and is widely used to traffic various illegal content and products. The NCA said seven men have already been convicted in Britain since the first suspect was arrested in 2017. One man "was jailed for 22 years for raping a five-year-old boy and appearing on Welcome To Video sexually abusing a three-year-old girl." The collaboration between global law enforcement agencies was sparked by the British investigation into a British scientist for child sex offences, according to the NCA, which deals with serious and organised crime, as well as cybercrime. Matthew Falder was sentenced to 25 years in jail in 2017 after admitting 137 counts of online abuse, including the encouragement of child rape and even the abuse of a baby. The US Justice Department indicted the site's alleged operator, identified as 23-year-old South Korean national Jong-Woo Son, on nine counts. "Darknet sites that profit from the sexual exploitation of children are among the vilest and reprehensible forms of criminal behaviour," said US Assistant Attorney General Brian Benczkowski.

Online child sex probe leads to 337 arrests: United Kingdom police

Two more incidents of child abuse have been reported from Kasur's Pattoki Tehsil this week.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistani-town-grapples-with-child-abuse-and-abduction-251666">After the Chunian incident,</a> the victims of child abuse in Pakistan have started raising their voices with the hope of seeking justice and unmasking the pedophiles.

Pattoki City police on Tuesday lodged a case of child molestation against a suspect, who was part of a five-member racket busted in another case of sexual abuse, Dawn News reported.

In the recently lodged complaint, the victim has accused the suspect of inviting him to a rented house in Naroki Majha village to celebrate his birthday and abusing him there. The accused belonged to a sensitive agency and was part of the five-member gang involved in such crime. The crime came to fore after the victim told his father about his ordeal when the suspect tried to blackmail him again with his objectionable pictures and videos.

Earlier on Monday, the police had busted the five-member pedophile racket for its involvement in abuse of a student of the third year for the last three years.

According to the first information report (FIR) lodged on Monday, the suspects had abused and blackmailed the boy for years through his objectionable pictures and videos.

The police claim to have recovered the pictures and videos from the suspects.

Police claimed that the racket would abuse the boys belonging to the age group of 10 to 20 years and blackmail them through pictures and videos.

Police Superintendent Mirza Quddus Baig told Dawn that they have not yet taken the two suspects belonging to the agencies in their custody.

"We would follow the due procedure and write to the sensitive agency to demand custody of the suspects for investigation," said Baig, adding that every suspect would be treated as per law.

Two more incidents of child abuse have been reported from Kasur's Pattoki Tehsil this week. After the Chunian incident, the victims of child abuse in Pakistan have started raising their voices with the hope of seeking justice and unmasking the pedophiles.

Two more incidents of child abuse have been reported from Kasur's Pattoki Tehsil this week. After the Chunian incident, the victims of child abuse in Pakistan have started raising their voices with the hope of seeking justice and unmasking the pedophiles. Pattoki City police on Tuesday lodged a case of child molestation against a suspect, who was part of a five-member racket busted in another case of sexual abuse, Dawn News reported. In the recently lodged complaint, the victim has accused the suspect of inviting him to a rented house in Naroki Majha village to celebrate his birthday and abusing him there. The accused belonged to a sensitive agency and was part of the five-member gang involved in such crime. The crime came to fore after the victim told his father about his ordeal when the suspect tried to blackmail him again with his objectionable pictures and videos. Earlier on Monday, the police had busted the five-member pedophile racket for its involvement in abuse of a student of the third year for the last three years. According to the first information report (FIR) lodged on Monday, the suspects had abused and blackmailed the boy for years through his objectionable pictures and videos. The police claim to have recovered the pictures and videos from the suspects. Police claimed that the racket would abuse the boys belonging to the age group of 10 to 20 years and blackmail them through pictures and videos. Police Superintendent Mirza Quddus Baig told Dawn that they have not yet taken the two suspects belonging to the agencies in their custody. "We would follow the due procedure and write to the sensitive agency to demand custody of the suspects for investigation," said Baig, adding that every suspect would be treated as per law.

Pakistan: 2 more cases of child abuse surface in Kasur

Grief, fear and anger have enveloped the town of Chunian in Pakistan's eastern, Punjab province after the bodies of three missing children were found in a district which has seen numerous cases of child abuse and abductions in recent years.

Pakistani town grapples with grim history of child abuse and abduction

Australia's financial regulator on Tuesday ordered an investigation into the global money transfer platform PayPal over concerns that it is being misused by sex offenders to buy <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/child-abuse-leaves-molecular-scars-victims-study-168858">child abuse</a> material from Asia.

The Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC) will appoint an external auditor to examine what it calls "ongoing concerns" over PayPal's alleged breaches of the country's anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing laws.

Announcing the appointment in a statement on Tuesday, AUSTRAC said that it was working with its partners to "combat serious crimes such as child sexual exploitation" using&nbsp;the information of transferred funds&nbsp;reported by the financial services sector.

"Online child abuse material can be ordered from Australia to areas such as the Philippines in quite often small amounts that are repeated often, and PayPal, unfortunately, is one of the areas that they can use to do that," AUSTRAC CEO Nicole Rose told the ABC.

"That's why we want to get the auditor in to really what sort of risks there have been and continue to be with PayPal systems or their reporting regime", she added.

A PayPal Australia spokesperson said that following an internal review the company had "self-disclosed an issue" in its reporting system to AUSTRAC.

"We are working in full cooperation with AUSTRAC to remediate this reporting system issue and to undertake the audit as outlined by AUSTRAC in the time specified," they said in a statement.&nbsp;

An audit report must be compiled within 120 days and will be used to determine whether the regulator takes any further action against the digital payments platform.

Australia's financial regulator on Tuesday ordered an investigation into the global money transfer platform PayPal over concerns that it is being misused by sex offenders to buy child abuse material from Asia.

Australia's financial regulator on Tuesday ordered an investigation into the global money transfer platform PayPal over concerns that it is being misused by sex offenders to buy child abuse material from Asia. The Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC) will appoint an external auditor to examine what it calls "ongoing concerns" over PayPal's alleged breaches of the country's anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing laws. Announcing the appointment in a statement on Tuesday, AUSTRAC said that it was working with its partners to "combat serious crimes such as child sexual exploitation" using the information of transferred funds reported by the financial services sector. "Online child abuse material can be ordered from Australia to areas such as the Philippines in quite often small amounts that are repeated often, and PayPal, unfortunately, is one of the areas that they can use to do that," AUSTRAC CEO Nicole Rose told the ABC. "That's why we want to get the auditor in to really what sort of risks there have been and continue to be with PayPal systems or their reporting regime", she added. A PayPal Australia spokesperson said that following an internal review the company had "self-disclosed an issue" in its reporting system to AUSTRAC. "We are working in full cooperation with AUSTRAC to remediate this reporting system issue and to undertake the audit as outlined by AUSTRAC in the time specified," they said in a statement. An audit report must be compiled within 120 days and will be used to determine whether the regulator takes any further action against the digital payments platform.

Australia probes PayPal over payments for child abuse content

Grief, fear, and anger have enveloped the town of Chunian in Pakistan's eastern, Punjab province after the bodies of three missing children were found in a district which has seen numerous cases of child abuse and abductions in recent years.

Police said on Monday that they had made twenty arrests as they investigated the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/2322-child-abuse-cases-reported-across-pakistan-in-the-first-six-months-report-162731">suspected murders and sexual assault of the boys</a>. The body of Muhammad Faizan had been found the previous week, a day after he went missing.

Faizan, 8, had failed to return home with his brother when the two went to nearby shops to buy snacks. His body and the remains of two more boys were later found on a deserted section of an industrial estate.

"The animal brutalized my child. I cannot bear this. I want justice," Faizan's mother, Amtal Salam said.

Local media reported three other children from the area have been missing since the middle of the year and another child had disappeared late last week after the bodies were found.

Videos of hundreds of local children being sexually assaulted were found circulating in 2015, which a senior child protection official at the time called the largest child abuse scandal in Pakistan's history.

Last year, the body of a 7-year-old girl was found in a garbage dumpster, which police said was the twelfth incident of a girl being abducted, raped and killed in the district in a year, and sparked violent protests. A man was convicted of committing the murder and was executed.

Hundreds more protested last week, blocking off streets and damaging shops.

Families in the area are fearful of the welfare and safety of their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/for-the-first-time-in-pakistans-history-court-convicts-man-over-child-pornography--133299">children</a>.

"Now the children are afraid to go to the mosques, they are afraid to go to school. Announcements have been made that parents should escort their children to school," said Shehnaz Bibi, a housewife from a neighbouring village.

Police are continuing to investigate the suspected murders and disappearances and are also looking into the possibility of a serial killer.

Grief, fear, and anger have enveloped the town of Chunian in Pakistan's eastern, Punjab province after the bodies of three missing children were found in a district which has seen numerous cases of child abuse and abductions in recent years.

Grief, fear, and anger have enveloped the town of Chunian in Pakistan's eastern, Punjab province after the bodies of three missing children were found in a district which has seen numerous cases of child abuse and abductions in recent years. Police said on Monday that they had made twenty arrests as they investigated the suspected murders and sexual assault of the boys. The body of Muhammad Faizan had been found the previous week, a day after he went missing. Faizan, 8, had failed to return home with his brother when the two went to nearby shops to buy snacks. His body and the remains of two more boys were later found on a deserted section of an industrial estate. "The animal brutalized my child. I cannot bear this. I want justice," Faizan's mother, Amtal Salam said. Local media reported three other children from the area have been missing since the middle of the year and another child had disappeared late last week after the bodies were found. Videos of hundreds of local children being sexually assaulted were found circulating in 2015, which a senior child protection official at the time called the largest child abuse scandal in Pakistan's history. Last year, the body of a 7-year-old girl was found in a garbage dumpster, which police said was the twelfth incident of a girl being abducted, raped and killed in the district in a year, and sparked violent protests. A man was convicted of committing the murder and was executed. Hundreds more protested last week, blocking off streets and damaging shops. Families in the area are fearful of the welfare and safety of their children. "Now the children are afraid to go to the mosques, they are afraid to go to school. Announcements have been made that parents should escort their children to school," said Shehnaz Bibi, a housewife from a neighbouring village. Police are continuing to investigate the suspected murders and disappearances and are also looking into the possibility of a serial killer.

Pakistani town grapples with child abuse and abduction

The Parliament on Thursday passed a bill that provides for stringent punishment for sexual crimes against children and the death penalty in cases of aggravated sexual assault.

The Lok Sabha passed the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Amendment) Bill, 2019 on Thursday. The bill seeks to amend Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012. It had been passed by Rajya Sabha earlier.

In her reply to the debate on the bill, Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani said 6.20 lakh sexual offenders were listed in the national database and they were being tracked by investigative agencies. She also expressed concern that the number of juvenile perpetrators of crimes is increasing.

Irani said the government was working to create 1023 fast track courts under the Nirbhaya fund to provide quick justice in cases of crimes against women.

"Eighteen states have come on board to see that these courts are established between 2019-20 and 1920-21," she said.

The minister said that about Rs 75 lakh would be spent in creating infrastructure for each court.

The minister expressed concern over the "slow rate" of conviction in POCSO cases and said that in about 36,000 cases under the Act, over 36,000 persons have been arrested.

Referring to a point made by a member about consensual sex, Irani said the suggestion was made before the standing committee which had said that there should be no exemption in cases involving children below 18 years of age.

She said steps had been taken for witness protection and states urged to create witness protection fund.

Asked about the suggestion that death penalty should not be given if the accused is a juvenile, she said in such cases the matter is decided by the court in consultation with Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) to determine if the person is of an adult mind.

The minister said various ministries were working cohesively on the issue of child protection under the Modi government and there has been a suggestion to track progress in POCSO cases.

Irani said children in CBSE-affiliated schools were being given awareness about "good touch and bad touch" and teachers were also being trained.

The minister suggested MPs to take up POCSO cases in district-level meetings.

She said there were 680 child welfare committees of which 444 were working to full strength while 509 of 675 JJBs were working to full strength.

Noting that training was being imparted for collection of forensic evidence, the minister suggested that the approved list of counsellors should be published.

Earlier, moving the bill for passage in the House, Irani had said 60 per cent of people using the internet were of ages less than 24, and there has been an instance of 5,000 people subscribing to an online porn channel which had the video of a crime.

She said the bill will protect the interest of vulnerable children in times of distress and ensure their safety and dignity.

Referring to a case of drugs being administered to children to bring about early sexual maturity, Irani said the bill seeks to award strong punishment in such cases.

Members cutting across party lines demanded strong punishment in crimes against children.

The Bill provides for levying fines and imprisonment to curb child pornography.

The strong penal provisions are expected to act as a deterrent to curb child sex abuse.

The Parliament on Thursday passed a bill that provides for stringent punishment for sexual crimes against children and the death penalty in cases of aggravated sexual assault.

The Parliament on Thursday passed a bill that provides for stringent punishment for sexual crimes against children and the death penalty in cases of aggravated sexual assault. The Lok Sabha passed the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Amendment) Bill, 2019 on Thursday. The bill seeks to amend Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012. It had been passed by Rajya Sabha earlier. In her reply to the debate on the bill, Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani said 6.20 lakh sexual offenders were listed in the national database and they were being tracked by investigative agencies. She also expressed concern that the number of juvenile perpetrators of crimes is increasing. Irani said the government was working to create 1023 fast track courts under the Nirbhaya fund to provide quick justice in cases of crimes against women. "Eighteen states have come on board to see that these courts are established between 2019-20 and 1920-21," she said. The minister said that about Rs 75 lakh would be spent in creating infrastructure for each court. The minister expressed concern over the "slow rate" of conviction in POCSO cases and said that in about 36,000 cases under the Act, over 36,000 persons have been arrested. Referring to a point made by a member about consensual sex, Irani said the suggestion was made before the standing committee which had said that there should be no exemption in cases involving children below 18 years of age. She said steps had been taken for witness protection and states urged to create witness protection fund. Asked about the suggestion that death penalty should not be given if the accused is a juvenile, she said in such cases the matter is decided by the court in consultation with Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) to determine if the person is of an adult mind. The minister said various ministries were working cohesively on the issue of child protection under the Modi government and there has been a suggestion to track progress in POCSO cases. Irani said children in CBSE-affiliated schools were being given awareness about "good touch and bad touch" and teachers were also being trained. The minister suggested MPs to take up POCSO cases in district-level meetings. She said there were 680 child welfare committees of which 444 were working to full strength while 509 of 675 JJBs were working to full strength. Noting that training was being imparted for collection of forensic evidence, the minister suggested that the approved list of counsellors should be published. Earlier, moving the bill for passage in the House, Irani had said 60 per cent of people using the internet were of ages less than 24, and there has been an instance of 5,000 people subscribing to an online porn channel which had the video of a crime. She said the bill will protect the interest of vulnerable children in times of distress and ensure their safety and dignity. Referring to a case of drugs being administered to children to bring about early sexual maturity, Irani said the bill seeks to award strong punishment in such cases. Members cutting across party lines demanded strong punishment in crimes against children. The Bill provides for levying fines and imprisonment to curb child pornography. The strong penal provisions are expected to act as a deterrent to curb child sex abuse.

Parliament passes POCSO (Amendment) Bill, proposed law introduces possibility of death penalty

The Supreme Court on Thursday directed the Centre to fund and set up exclusive courts in every district where 100 or more cases under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act are pending.

The special courts for the trial of cases of sexual offences against children should start functioning with 60 days, a bench of Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice Deepak Gupta ordered. These courts will not hear any other cases except those under the POCSO Act, it said.

The fund will not only take care of the appointment of presiding officers but also court staff, support staff, besides the infrastructure for vulnerable court complexes, the court noted. It asked the Centre to file a progress report in four weeks.&nbsp;

The bench also directed the chief secretaries of all states to ensure the effective functioning of the forensic science laboratories (FSL).&nbsp;

The order came after amicus curiae and senior advocate V Giri submitted his report on the directions of the court. Giri said there is a lack of proper judicial infrastructure for the trial of POCSO cases.

Earlier, the Supreme Court had asked its registry to collate district-wise data from the registrars of all the high courts on the total number of child rape cases and how long these have been pending.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court on Thursday directed the Centre to fund and set up exclusive courts in every district where 100 or more cases under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act are pending.

The Supreme Court on Thursday directed the Centre to fund and set up exclusive courts in every district where 100 or more cases under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act are pending. The special courts for the trial of cases of sexual offences against children should start functioning with 60 days, a bench of Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice Deepak Gupta ordered. These courts will not hear any other cases except those under the POCSO Act, it said. The fund will not only take care of the appointment of presiding officers but also court staff, support staff, besides the infrastructure for vulnerable court complexes, the court noted. It asked the Centre to file a progress report in four weeks. The bench also directed the chief secretaries of all states to ensure the effective functioning of the forensic science laboratories (FSL). The order came after amicus curiae and senior advocate V Giri submitted his report on the directions of the court. Giri said there is a lack of proper judicial infrastructure for the trial of POCSO cases. Earlier, the Supreme Court had asked its registry to collate district-wise data from the registrars of all the high courts on the total number of child rape cases and how long these have been pending.

Supreme Court directs Centre to fund, set up special POCSO courts

Pope Francis on Friday enacted sweeping new legislation to protect children from sexual abuse within the Vatican and other Holy See institutions in Rome as well as by its diplomatic corps worldwide.

Previously, the abuse of minors and vulnerable people came under various legal provisions, some of them instituted on an ad hoc basis.

The new provisions mark the first time a unified and rigorous policy for the protection of children, which the Vatican has been demanding from local churches, has been compiled for the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church.

The changes were issued under the form of an Apostolic Letter, a 12-article law, and a set of detailed guidelines affecting personnel in the Vatican and its related institutions such as pontifical institutes and embassies.

While there are few minors who live inside the Vatican, such as children of security officials, there is a "pre-seminary" on Vatican grounds that houses altar servers, and many children visit Vatican institutions such as the museums every day.

The "pre-seminary," from where some of the teenage boys who study there have gone on to become priests, was hit by a sexual abuse scandal in 2017. It involved one boy alleging that he had been abused by another minor. He said it was made possible by inadequate supervision on the part of adult priests.&nbsp; 
The pre-seminary was mentioned specifically in one of the articles of the new legislation.

The over-arching law, which the Vatican first promised to the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child in 2013, goes into effect on June 1.

It calls for a Vatican official or employee convicted of abusing a child to be dismissed, sets up procedures for reporting suspected abuse, and imposes more screening of prospective employees to prevent hiring potential abusers.&nbsp;

Pope Francis on Friday enacted sweeping new legislation to protect children from sexual abuse within the Vatican and other Holy See institutions in Rome as well as by its diplomatic corps worldwide.

Pope Francis on Friday enacted sweeping new legislation to protect children from sexual abuse within the Vatican and other Holy See institutions in Rome as well as by its diplomatic corps worldwide. Previously, the abuse of minors and vulnerable people came under various legal provisions, some of them instituted on an ad hoc basis. The new provisions mark the first time a unified and rigorous policy for the protection of children, which the Vatican has been demanding from local churches, has been compiled for the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church. The changes were issued under the form of an Apostolic Letter, a 12-article law, and a set of detailed guidelines affecting personnel in the Vatican and its related institutions such as pontifical institutes and embassies. While there are few minors who live inside the Vatican, such as children of security officials, there is a "pre-seminary" on Vatican grounds that houses altar servers, and many children visit Vatican institutions such as the museums every day. The "pre-seminary," from where some of the teenage boys who study there have gone on to become priests, was hit by a sexual abuse scandal in 2017. It involved one boy alleging that he had been abused by another minor. He said it was made possible by inadequate supervision on the part of adult priests. The pre-seminary was mentioned specifically in one of the articles of the new legislation. The over-arching law, which the Vatican first promised to the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child in 2013, goes into effect on June 1. It calls for a Vatican official or employee convicted of abusing a child to be dismissed, sets up procedures for reporting suspected abuse, and imposes more screening of prospective employees to prevent hiring potential abusers.

Pope enacts new legislation to prevent child abuse in Vatican

A French court on Thursday found a senior Roman Catholic cleric guilty of covering up sexual abuse committed by a paedophile priest in his Archdiocese.&nbsp;

A court in Lyon handed Cardinal Philippe Barbarin, 68, who is the Archbishop of the city in southwestern France, a six month suspended sentence for failing to report accusations brought by the alleged victims of priest Bernard Preynat.&nbsp;

"This victory sends a strong signal to lots of victims and allows them to understand that they are heard, listened to and recognized," Francois Devaux, a plaintiff, and co-founder of the La Parole Liberée, an association for survivors of child abuse in the Catholic Church, told the press.

The allegations of child abuse dating back to a period between 1970-90, although the court found Barbarin helped silence controversy in a period between 2014/15.&nbsp;

The sentencing came as a surprise as even the prosecution did not recommend punishment, citing a lack of evidence.&nbsp;

Furthermore, some of the accusations were outside the given statute of limitations.&nbsp;

Barbarin will not serve time unless he is found to have re-offended.&nbsp;

He was also ordered to pay a symbolic settlement fee of one euro ($1.13) to each of the eight complainants, according to France Info.&nbsp;

Barbarin's lawyers said they would appeal the ruling. Barbarin has maintained that he never tried to cover up the abuse, which he has described as "horrible," and said that he had only heard rumours until 2014 when one of the alleged victims approached him directly.&nbsp;

"The court's motivation did not convince me. We will, therefore, challenge this decision using all legal avenues," Jean-Félix Luciano, a defence lawyer for Barbarin, said.&nbsp;

In 2015, he asked the Vatican for advice on how to handle the case. The heart of the Catholic Church suggested he punish the priest but avoid a public scandal, although the cardinal delayed taking the measure until August of that year.&nbsp;

La Parole Liberée suggested the symbolic one euro payment, saying the trial against the cardinal had already been a public victory.&nbsp;

Five other senior officials who were summoned to the trial were acquitted.&nbsp;

Preynat has admitted to molesting children in the Boy Scouts in the 1970/80s.

A French court on Thursday found a senior Roman Catholic cleric guilty of covering up sexual abuse committed by a paedophile priest in his Archdiocese. A court in Lyon handed Cardinal Philippe Barbarin, 68, who is the Archbishop of the city in southwestern France, a six month suspended sentence for failing to report accusations brought by the alleged victims of priest Bernard Preynat.

A French court on Thursday found a senior Roman Catholic cleric guilty of covering up sexual abuse committed by a paedophile priest in his Archdiocese. A court in Lyon handed Cardinal Philippe Barbarin, 68, who is the Archbishop of the city in southwestern France, a six month suspended sentence for failing to report accusations brought by the alleged victims of priest Bernard Preynat. "This victory sends a strong signal to lots of victims and allows them to understand that they are heard, listened to and recognized," Francois Devaux, a plaintiff, and co-founder of the La Parole Liberée, an association for survivors of child abuse in the Catholic Church, told the press. The allegations of child abuse dating back to a period between 1970-90, although the court found Barbarin helped silence controversy in a period between 2014/15. The sentencing came as a surprise as even the prosecution did not recommend punishment, citing a lack of evidence. Furthermore, some of the accusations were outside the given statute of limitations. Barbarin will not serve time unless he is found to have re-offended. He was also ordered to pay a symbolic settlement fee of one euro ($1.13) to each of the eight complainants, according to France Info. Barbarin's lawyers said they would appeal the ruling. Barbarin has maintained that he never tried to cover up the abuse, which he has described as "horrible," and said that he had only heard rumours until 2014 when one of the alleged victims approached him directly. "The court's motivation did not convince me. We will, therefore, challenge this decision using all legal avenues," Jean-Félix Luciano, a defence lawyer for Barbarin, said. In 2015, he asked the Vatican for advice on how to handle the case. The heart of the Catholic Church suggested he punish the priest but avoid a public scandal, although the cardinal delayed taking the measure until August of that year. La Parole Liberée suggested the symbolic one euro payment, saying the trial against the cardinal had already been a public victory. Five other senior officials who were summoned to the trial were acquitted. Preynat has admitted to molesting children in the Boy Scouts in the 1970/80s.

French cardinal found guilty of covering up child abuse

Child soliders in war zones across globe

The United States' largest Protestant denomination, the Southern Baptist Convention, is facing a sexual abuse crisis after a bombshell report revealed hundreds of predators and more than 700 victims since 1998.

The report by two Texas newspapers found some<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-says-church-hasnt-known-how-to-listen-193036"> 380 church leaders and volunteers have faced public accusations of abuse,</a> mostly of children as young as three years old.

Some of the accused continued to work at Southern Baptist churches, the newspapers said.

In response to the report, church officials acknowledged the number of victims could actually be higher and urged survivors to come forward.

"One of the things I'm encouraged by are the number of pastors that are actively engaged right now," in the report's aftermath, convention leader Russell Moore told AFP on Tuesday.

The revelations threatened to engulf the denomination — with some 47,000 churches and 15 million members mostly in the southern US — in the same type of scandal that has roiled the Catholic Church.

A more comprehensive response was likely to come from the Southern Baptist organization next week when president JD Greear "is scheduled to give an update on a sexual abuse study he commissioned last summer," said spokesman Roger Oldham.

Unlike the Vatican, the Southern Baptist Convention is a loose network of churches allowed to run autonomously, ordain their own ministers — who are not required to be celibate — and hire staff and volunteers based on each church's own standards.

The decentralized system, which lacks a shared database of personnel records, has been rife for exploitation by sexual abusers, according to the investigative report first published over the weekend by the Houston Chronicle and the San Antonio Express-News.

Lax oversight allowed some abusers with criminal convictions — even registered sex offenders — to continue working at Southern Baptist churches, according to the report, which found 220 offenders who were convicted or took plea deals.

"In the denomination, each congregation governs its own affairs. There are no bishops. There are no supervisors," Moore said.

"But churches can decide with whom they fellowship," he said. "No one can use church autonomy as an excuse." In at least 35 cases, abusers were able to leave one church and find work in another over the last two decades. In some cases, congregations knew about past abuse.

For example, Illinois pastor Leslie Mason was convicted in 2003 on two counts of sexual assault. After being released from prison, he went on to lead a different church nearby.

Florida pastor Darrell Gilyard, released from prison in 2011 after a criminal sex abuse conviction involving two girls, returned to preach services which children could not attend because a court order required him to stay away from minors.

Moore said some Southern Baptists held erroneous views of forgiveness that "assumes these predators should be simply given a second chance." In other instances, he said, churches believed horrific crimes could not occur within their ministries.

Moore also acknowledged that the Southern Baptist Convention rejected a proposal in 2007 that it should establish a registry to track abuse claims and prevent predators from getting rehired by other churches.

The newspapers found hundreds of abuse cases in the years since. And past church leaders have been accused of concealing or mishandling complaints.

"As a denomination, now is a time to mourn and repent. Changes are coming. They must," said Greear, the convention's current president, on Twitter.

The Survivors Network for those Abused by Priests (SNAP), an organization mostly focused on the Catholic Church's abuse scandal, urged Southern Baptist survivors to report crimes to law enforcement.

"It is critical that law enforcement officials at every level of government look into these cases," the organization said in a statement.

Failure by Catholic Church officials to take action on sexual abuse allegations involving minors has been an urgent crisis hitting Roman Catholicism globally in recent years.

Pope Francis last week admitted that priests and bishops also had sexually abused nuns.&nbsp;

The United States' largest Protestant denomination, the Southern Baptist Convention, is facing a sexual abuse crisis after a bombshell report revealed hundreds of predators and more than 700 victims since 1998.

The United States' largest Protestant denomination, the Southern Baptist Convention, is facing a sexual abuse crisis after a bombshell report revealed hundreds of predators and more than 700 victims since 1998. The report by two Texas newspapers found some 380 church leaders and volunteers have faced public accusations of abuse, mostly of children as young as three years old. Some of the accused continued to work at Southern Baptist churches, the newspapers said. In response to the report, church officials acknowledged the number of victims could actually be higher and urged survivors to come forward. "One of the things I'm encouraged by are the number of pastors that are actively engaged right now," in the report's aftermath, convention leader Russell Moore told AFP on Tuesday. The revelations threatened to engulf the denomination — with some 47,000 churches and 15 million members mostly in the southern US — in the same type of scandal that has roiled the Catholic Church. A more comprehensive response was likely to come from the Southern Baptist organization next week when president JD Greear "is scheduled to give an update on a sexual abuse study he commissioned last summer," said spokesman Roger Oldham. Unlike the Vatican, the Southern Baptist Convention is a loose network of churches allowed to run autonomously, ordain their own ministers — who are not required to be celibate — and hire staff and volunteers based on each church's own standards. The decentralized system, which lacks a shared database of personnel records, has been rife for exploitation by sexual abusers, according to the investigative report first published over the weekend by the Houston Chronicle and the San Antonio Express-News. Lax oversight allowed some abusers with criminal convictions — even registered sex offenders — to continue working at Southern Baptist churches, according to the report, which found 220 offenders who were convicted or took plea deals. "In the denomination, each congregation governs its own affairs. There are no bishops. There are no supervisors," Moore said. "But churches can decide with whom they fellowship," he said. "No one can use church autonomy as an excuse." In at least 35 cases, abusers were able to leave one church and find work in another over the last two decades. In some cases, congregations knew about past abuse. For example, Illinois pastor Leslie Mason was convicted in 2003 on two counts of sexual assault. After being released from prison, he went on to lead a different church nearby. Florida pastor Darrell Gilyard, released from prison in 2011 after a criminal sex abuse conviction involving two girls, returned to preach services which children could not attend because a court order required him to stay away from minors. Moore said some Southern Baptists held erroneous views of forgiveness that "assumes these predators should be simply given a second chance." In other instances, he said, churches believed horrific crimes could not occur within their ministries. Moore also acknowledged that the Southern Baptist Convention rejected a proposal in 2007 that it should establish a registry to track abuse claims and prevent predators from getting rehired by other churches. The newspapers found hundreds of abuse cases in the years since. And past church leaders have been accused of concealing or mishandling complaints. "As a denomination, now is a time to mourn and repent. Changes are coming. They must," said Greear, the convention's current president, on Twitter. The Survivors Network for those Abused by Priests (SNAP), an organization mostly focused on the Catholic Church's abuse scandal, urged Southern Baptist survivors to report crimes to law enforcement. "It is critical that law enforcement officials at every level of government look into these cases," the organization said in a statement. Failure by Catholic Church officials to take action on sexual abuse allegations involving minors has been an urgent crisis hitting Roman Catholicism globally in recent years. Pope Francis last week admitted that priests and bishops also had sexually abused nuns.

US Southern Baptist churches embroiled in sex abuse scandal

It took a Supreme Court order to begin the first-ever, much needed, mapping of 9,589 homes, including observation homes, special homes and open shelters across the country.&nbsp;

The Report titled ‘Mapping and Review Exercise of Child Care Institutions’, conducted between December 2015 -March &nbsp;2017, was recently made public by the Ministry of Women and Child Development.&nbsp;

The survey throws light on the functioning of child care institutions (CCIs) in the country in the context of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 (JJA).&nbsp;

The study included orphans, abandoned, sexually abused, victims of child pornography, minors who were trafficked for domestic work or labour, those affected and infected by HIV and AIDS as well as those hit by natural disasters.

A very basic database has now emerged of children living in the CCIs across the country that presents only a selection of the larger number of indicators required for CCIs.

Data gaps need to be filled and concerns addressed. Data on children with special needs is also required.

The successive JJAs brought in many changes, but in several states, besides change in nomenclature, there has been very little else.

Children exposed to institutional care do not receive the type of nurturing and stimulating environment needed for normal growth and healthy psychological development.&nbsp;

According to the report, only 46.7 per cent of the homes had an adequate number of caregivers per child and a dismal 28.7 per cent centres were able to tend to inmates showing signs of hunger or illness.&nbsp;

The report points that the lack of infrastructure facilities is “glaring” and that more than 1,000 homes did not have a dormitory for children.&nbsp;

Data is required regarding the emotional, educational and health needs of children. The children are deprived of opportunities to develop stable and continuous attachment relationships due to the large staff turnover and poor quality of contact with their caregivers.

The staff closest to children must be carefully recruited, screened, mandatory-trained in child rights, kindness and compassion, patience, and attentiveness.

Children are regimented. There is lack of a rights-based approach and no understanding on developing counselling, life skills, training, educational interventions and health support for children. No concept of rehabilitation, reintegration, deinstitutionalization and independent living. No long-term vision for children. The location of homes is based on political considerations, rather than on needs of the children.

Children have the right to participate and freely express their views and there is an obligation to listen to their views. It is important to hear the voices of children in the institutions. Nobody has talked to the children for the report. It is significant that children will only express, in a safe and trustful environment, which is lacking at the moment.&nbsp;

Recent incidents in certain homes across the country have established that sexual, physical and emotional abuse of children is rampant. Children feel powerless, angry, frightened and lonely.&nbsp;

The trauma of abuse lasts for a lifetime if the process of healing does not take place. The process of healing is the responsibility of the management and staff. &nbsp;Unfortunately, in a majority of the homes, there is zero awareness.&nbsp;

The report reveals that 65.9 per cent of homes were able to actively supervise children under trauma. CCIs mandate infrastructure, modernisation and digital technology in the homes.&nbsp;

The grievance redressal system has to be strengthened. Institutions must open up. There must be regular interaction with children by joint teams of government and civil society. Mandatory ongoing child protection training is required for staff and management.&nbsp;

Information is required as to what happens to these children after they leave the institutions. Aftercare in the juvenile justice system is an absolute failure.&nbsp;

Another issue of concern is the child’s right to an identity. &nbsp;Children should be given proper names and identity documents. Not known or NK, should not be mentioned on these documents, as it leads to their stigmatisation.&nbsp;

There is a growing global consensus on the need to promote family-based alternatives to institutional care for children.&nbsp;

A right climate is needed to create cost-effective, sustainable alternatives, including strengthening families and raising public awareness.

More evidence-based data will be a tool to systemic reform and transformation of CCIs. It is imperative and urgent that the Ministry invests resources on this.&nbsp;

There must be a participatory and consultative approach with various stakeholders, including children. When it comes to children in institutions, we must apply the same standards of care that we would to our own children. 
 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-child-care-institutions-in-india-are-in-dire-need-of-reforms-2708362">original article)</a>

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

It took a Supreme Court order to begin the first-ever, much needed, mapping of 9,589 homes, including observation homes, special homes and open shelters across the country.

It took a Supreme Court order to begin the first-ever, much needed, mapping of 9,589 homes, including observation homes, special homes and open shelters across the country. The Report titled ‘Mapping and Review Exercise of Child Care Institutions’, conducted between December 2015 -March 2017, was recently made public by the Ministry of Women and Child Development. The survey throws light on the functioning of child care institutions (CCIs) in the country in the context of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 (JJA). The study included orphans, abandoned, sexually abused, victims of child pornography, minors who were trafficked for domestic work or labour, those affected and infected by HIV and AIDS as well as those hit by natural disasters. A very basic database has now emerged of children living in the CCIs across the country that presents only a selection of the larger number of indicators required for CCIs. Data gaps need to be filled and concerns addressed. Data on children with special needs is also required. The successive JJAs brought in many changes, but in several states, besides change in nomenclature, there has been very little else. Children exposed to institutional care do not receive the type of nurturing and stimulating environment needed for normal growth and healthy psychological development. According to the report, only 46.7 per cent of the homes had an adequate number of caregivers per child and a dismal 28.7 per cent centres were able to tend to inmates showing signs of hunger or illness. The report points that the lack of infrastructure facilities is “glaring” and that more than 1,000 homes did not have a dormitory for children. Data is required regarding the emotional, educational and health needs of children. The children are deprived of opportunities to develop stable and continuous attachment relationships due to the large staff turnover and poor quality of contact with their caregivers. The staff closest to children must be carefully recruited, screened, mandatory-trained in child rights, kindness and compassion, patience, and attentiveness. Children are regimented. There is lack of a rights-based approach and no understanding on developing counselling, life skills, training, educational interventions and health support for children. No concept of rehabilitation, reintegration, deinstitutionalization and independent living. No long-term vision for children. The location of homes is based on political considerations, rather than on needs of the children. Children have the right to participate and freely express their views and there is an obligation to listen to their views. It is important to hear the voices of children in the institutions. Nobody has talked to the children for the report. It is significant that children will only express, in a safe and trustful environment, which is lacking at the moment. Recent incidents in certain homes across the country have established that sexual, physical and emotional abuse of children is rampant. Children feel powerless, angry, frightened and lonely. The trauma of abuse lasts for a lifetime if the process of healing does not take place. The process of healing is the responsibility of the management and staff. Unfortunately, in a majority of the homes, there is zero awareness. The report reveals that 65.9 per cent of homes were able to actively supervise children under trauma. CCIs mandate infrastructure, modernisation and digital technology in the homes. The grievance redressal system has to be strengthened. Institutions must open up. There must be regular interaction with children by joint teams of government and civil society. Mandatory ongoing child protection training is required for staff and management. Information is required as to what happens to these children after they leave the institutions. Aftercare in the juvenile justice system is an absolute failure. Another issue of concern is the child’s right to an identity. Children should be given proper names and identity documents. Not known or NK, should not be mentioned on these documents, as it leads to their stigmatisation. There is a growing global consensus on the need to promote family-based alternatives to institutional care for children. A right climate is needed to create cost-effective, sustainable alternatives, including strengthening families and raising public awareness. More evidence-based data will be a tool to systemic reform and transformation of CCIs. It is imperative and urgent that the Ministry invests resources on this. There must be a participatory and consultative approach with various stakeholders, including children. When it comes to children in institutions, we must apply the same standards of care that we would to our own children. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Child care institutions in India are in dire need of reforms

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has delivered a historic national apology to child victims of institutional sexual abuse.

"This was done by Australians to Australians, enemies in our midst, enemies in our midst," Morrison told a parliamentary chamber in a televised speech, his voice trembling with emotion.

"As a nation, we failed them, we forsook them, and that will always be our shame," he added.

Morrison’s apology in parliament followed the release of last year’s report by the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse.

The inquiry received more than 40,000 phone calls, 25,000 letters and emails, and held about 8000 private sessions, resulting in 2575 referrals to authorities, including police.

The government has accepted 104 of the 122 recommendations handed down by the royal commission, with the other 18 being closely examined in consultation with states and territories. 
 
(With inputs from AFP)

<iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/r9Ueosh8dH4" width="560"></iframe>

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has delivered a historic national apology to child victims of institutional sexual abuse. "This was done by Australians to Australians, enemies in our midst, enemies in our midst," Morrison told a parliamentary chamber in a televised speech, his voice trembling with emotion.

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has delivered a historic national apology to child victims of institutional sexual abuse. "This was done by Australians to Australians, enemies in our midst, enemies in our midst," Morrison told a parliamentary chamber in a televised speech, his voice trembling with emotion. "As a nation, we failed them, we forsook them, and that will always be our shame," he added. Morrison’s apology in parliament followed the release of last year’s report by the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse. The inquiry received more than 40,000 phone calls, 25,000 letters and emails, and held about 8000 private sessions, resulting in 2575 referrals to authorities, including police. The government has accepted 104 of the 122 recommendations handed down by the royal commission, with the other 18 being closely examined in consultation with states and territories. (With inputs from AFP)

Watch: Australian PM Scott Morrison apologises to victims of institutional child abuse

The Law Ministry has endorsed a proposal of the Women and Child Development Ministry to remove the time limit for reporting child sexual abuse, WCD Minister Maneka Gandhi said Tuesday.

Maneka Gandhi had, on October 3, written to Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad asking him to remove the time limit for reporting child sexual abuse and allow people to complain even "10-15 years later".

She told reporters that the Law Ministry has agreed to their proposal and endorses removal of time limit for reporting such crimes.

The further course would be soon decided, a senior WCD official said.

Under Section 468 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), any offence, including child abuse, which can lead to a prison term of three years has to be reported within three years of the incident.

According to Section 473 of the CrPC, a court may take cognisance of an older case if it is in the "interest of justice" or if the "delay has been properly explained". However, victims of child sexual abuse often face problems in registering an FIR once they are 18 years of age or more.

In her letter, Maneka Gandhi had urged the Law Minister that people should be allowed to lodge their complaint even "10-15 years later".

"It doesn't matter how much later. If you're going to complain, the avenue is open," she had earlier said.

"We are of the view that cases of child sexual abuse can be reported by the victim at any time and law enforcement agencies would be required to take appropriate actions on the complaint of such victim," she said in the letter.

Many children, the minister said, are unable to report such crimes as the perpetrator in most cases is either a family member, a relative or a closely known person.

"Studies have also shown that the child continues to carry the trauma of sexual abuse till very late in life," Maneka Gandhi wrote to Mr Prasad.

She had earlier proposed that child sexual abuse victims be allowed to register complaints until they are 30.

The Law Ministry has endorsed a proposal of the Women and Child Development Ministry to remove the time limit for reporting child sexual abuse, WCD Minister Maneka Gandhi said Tuesday.

The Law Ministry has endorsed a proposal of the Women and Child Development Ministry to remove the time limit for reporting child sexual abuse, WCD Minister Maneka Gandhi said Tuesday. Maneka Gandhi had, on October 3, written to Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad asking him to remove the time limit for reporting child sexual abuse and allow people to complain even "10-15 years later". She told reporters that the Law Ministry has agreed to their proposal and endorses removal of time limit for reporting such crimes. The further course would be soon decided, a senior WCD official said. Under Section 468 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), any offence, including child abuse, which can lead to a prison term of three years has to be reported within three years of the incident. According to Section 473 of the CrPC, a court may take cognisance of an older case if it is in the "interest of justice" or if the "delay has been properly explained". However, victims of child sexual abuse often face problems in registering an FIR once they are 18 years of age or more. In her letter, Maneka Gandhi had urged the Law Minister that people should be allowed to lodge their complaint even "10-15 years later". "It doesn't matter how much later. If you're going to complain, the avenue is open," she had earlier said. "We are of the view that cases of child sexual abuse can be reported by the victim at any time and law enforcement agencies would be required to take appropriate actions on the complaint of such victim," she said in the letter. Many children, the minister said, are unable to report such crimes as the perpetrator in most cases is either a family member, a relative or a closely known person. "Studies have also shown that the child continues to carry the trauma of sexual abuse till very late in life," Maneka Gandhi wrote to Mr Prasad. She had earlier proposed that child sexual abuse victims be allowed to register complaints until they are 30.

Law Ministry endorses removal of time limit to report child sexual abuse: Maneka Gandhi

Union Minister for Women and Child Development,&nbsp;Maneka Gandhi&nbsp;on Monday said she is happy that #MeToo movement&nbsp;has started in India.

However, she further told ANI that she hopes that the campaign won't go out of control "in the sense that we target people who have offended us in some way. But, on the whole, I think women are responsible."

Stressing on the fact that "anger at sexual molestation never goes away" and the individual "never forgets the person who did it," Gandhi informed, "It is because of this reason, we have written to the law ministry, saying that the complaints should be without any time limit."

The Union Minsiter then gave a message to all the women who have been subjected to some or the other form of harassment and said, "Please remember that you can now - as we have interpreted it - complain 10 years later, 15 years later, it doesn't matter how much later. The point is, if you are going to complain, the avenue is still open."

She then talked about the number of steps taken by her ministry to empower women to speak out.

"First, we launched 'I am trolled', which can be used by women to alert relevant government agents when they are threatened with physical violence on social media. Then, we also made sexual harassment committee mandatory in every company where there are more than 10 employees," she said.

She added that the companies, in their financial return, will have to reveal if they have started with the committee or not.

"We also launched a comprehensive SHe-Box online complaint Management System for women working in both public and private organisations to lodge complaints of sexual harassment at workplace," Gandhi concluded.

The #MeToo movement&nbsp;began a year ago in Hollywood after&nbsp;The New York Times&nbsp;and&nbsp;The New Yorker&nbsp;published several stories about decades-long predation of movie mogul Harvey Weinstein.

The movement is now gaining momentum in India as well, with accusations being levelled against some powerful personalities in media and the entertainment industry.

Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Maneka Gandhi on Monday said she is happy that #MeToo movement has started in India. However, she further told ANI that she hopes that the campaign won't go out of control "in the sense that we target people who have offended us in some way.

Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Maneka Gandhi on Monday said she is happy that #MeToo movement has started in India. However, she further told ANI that she hopes that the campaign won't go out of control "in the sense that we target people who have offended us in some way. But, on the whole, I think women are responsible." Stressing on the fact that "anger at sexual molestation never goes away" and the individual "never forgets the person who did it," Gandhi informed, "It is because of this reason, we have written to the law ministry, saying that the complaints should be without any time limit." The Union Minsiter then gave a message to all the women who have been subjected to some or the other form of harassment and said, "Please remember that you can now - as we have interpreted it - complain 10 years later, 15 years later, it doesn't matter how much later. The point is, if you are going to complain, the avenue is still open." She then talked about the number of steps taken by her ministry to empower women to speak out. "First, we launched 'I am trolled', which can be used by women to alert relevant government agents when they are threatened with physical violence on social media. Then, we also made sexual harassment committee mandatory in every company where there are more than 10 employees," she said. She added that the companies, in their financial return, will have to reveal if they have started with the committee or not. "We also launched a comprehensive SHe-Box online complaint Management System for women working in both public and private organisations to lodge complaints of sexual harassment at workplace," Gandhi concluded. The #MeToo movement began a year ago in Hollywood after The New York Times and The New Yorker published several stories about decades-long predation of movie mogul Harvey Weinstein. The movement is now gaining momentum in India as well, with accusations being levelled against some powerful personalities in media and the entertainment industry.

Happy that #MeToo movement has started in India, says Maneka Gandhi

Why preventing child abuse in schools needs change in approach

Children subjected to abuse may carry the physical hallmark of that trauma in their cells, scientists said Tuesday, in research that could help criminal investigations probing historic mistreatment.

The imprints may also shed light on whether or not trauma can be passed on between generations as has long been hypothesised.

A team of researchers at the University of British Columbia examined the sperm cells of 34 adult men, some of whom had been victims of child abuse years earlier.&nbsp;

They found that the effects of the trauma were indelibly printed in 12 regions of the DNA of those men who had experienced varying levels of emotional, physical or sexual abuse.

Scientists believe these alterations, known as methylation, could one day be used by investigators or courts to weigh allegations of child abuse.&nbsp;

"If you think of genes as being like lightbulbs, DNA methylation is like a dimmer switch that controls how strong each light is -- which in turn can influence how cells function," Nicole Gladish, a PhD candidate in the university's Department of Medical Genetics, told AFP.

"This information can potentially provide additional information about how childhood abuse affects long-term physical and mental health."

The experiment is one of a growing number of trials looking into what turns genes "on and off" at different periods of human development, a field of study known as epigenetics.

Once thought as entirely pre-programmed from conception, some genes are now known to be activated or deactivated by environmental factors or an individual's life experience.&nbsp;

'Small piece of the puzzle'

Scientists involved in the study, published in the journal Translational Psychiatry, said they still did not know how methylation affects a person's long-term health.&nbsp;

In addition, due to the difficulty in extracting egg cells, the team don't plan to replicate the experiment on women -- statistically far likelier to have been victims of child abuse than men.

Scientists said the degree of "dimming" in the DNA regions were surprising -- one part of the genome of the men who were abused as children was 29 per cent different to those who were not.&nbsp;

And, because the degree of methylation changes over time, they were able to tell by looking at the men's cells roughly when the abuse occurred.&nbsp;

"This might help the development of tests that could be used by healthcare workers or potentially even as forensic evidence," Gladish said.&nbsp;

Although researchers still have little idea whether or not the imprints of abuse contained within sperm cells would survive fertilisation intact, lead author Andrea Roberts said the study "brings us at least one step closer" towards working out if trauma can be transmitted across generations.

"We can look at our study as one small piece in the huge overall puzzle of how intergenerational trauma works," said Gladish.&nbsp;

She pointed out there are several other teams working on the conundrum, including experiments on mice and other animals.

"It is certainly possible that epigenetic changes in sperm cells play a role in the physical and mental health of the next generation, but we don't know for sure."&nbsp;

Children subjected to abuse may carry the physical hallmark of that trauma in their cells, scientists said Tuesday, in research that could help criminal investigations probing historic mistreatment.

Children subjected to abuse may carry the physical hallmark of that trauma in their cells, scientists said Tuesday, in research that could help criminal investigations probing historic mistreatment. The imprints may also shed light on whether or not trauma can be passed on between generations as has long been hypothesised. A team of researchers at the University of British Columbia examined the sperm cells of 34 adult men, some of whom had been victims of child abuse years earlier. They found that the effects of the trauma were indelibly printed in 12 regions of the DNA of those men who had experienced varying levels of emotional, physical or sexual abuse. Scientists believe these alterations, known as methylation, could one day be used by investigators or courts to weigh allegations of child abuse. "If you think of genes as being like lightbulbs, DNA methylation is like a dimmer switch that controls how strong each light is -- which in turn can influence how cells function," Nicole Gladish, a PhD candidate in the university's Department of Medical Genetics, told AFP. "This information can potentially provide additional information about how childhood abuse affects long-term physical and mental health." The experiment is one of a growing number of trials looking into what turns genes "on and off" at different periods of human development, a field of study known as epigenetics. Once thought as entirely pre-programmed from conception, some genes are now known to be activated or deactivated by environmental factors or an individual's life experience. 'Small piece of the puzzle' Scientists involved in the study, published in the journal Translational Psychiatry, said they still did not know how methylation affects a person's long-term health. In addition, due to the difficulty in extracting egg cells, the team don't plan to replicate the experiment on women -- statistically far likelier to have been victims of child abuse than men. Scientists said the degree of "dimming" in the DNA regions were surprising -- one part of the genome of the men who were abused as children was 29 per cent different to those who were not. And, because the degree of methylation changes over time, they were able to tell by looking at the men's cells roughly when the abuse occurred. "This might help the development of tests that could be used by healthcare workers or potentially even as forensic evidence," Gladish said. Although researchers still have little idea whether or not the imprints of abuse contained within sperm cells would survive fertilisation intact, lead author Andrea Roberts said the study "brings us at least one step closer" towards working out if trauma can be transmitted across generations. "We can look at our study as one small piece in the huge overall puzzle of how intergenerational trauma works," said Gladish. She pointed out there are several other teams working on the conundrum, including experiments on mice and other animals. "It is certainly possible that epigenetic changes in sperm cells play a role in the physical and mental health of the next generation, but we don't know for sure."

Child abuse leaves 'molecular scars' on victims: Study

A 16-year-old girl was allegedly gang-raped by three youths including a relative for hours inside a moving a car in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh.

The incident occurred on April 18, according to the victim's statement.

The girl has alleged that three people, including a distant relative and a fellow classmate offered to drop her home since she had missed her school bus. But that the men then gang-raped her.

The third accused in the case has not yet been unidentified.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In her statement to police, the 16-year old has alleged her attackers forced her to have a spiked drink before they attacked her.

The girl's parents filed a police complaint in the evening after she did not return home.

The police later found her on a road near Knowledge Park at about 2 am in the morning.

The girl, whe was unconscious when she was found, was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital.

She recorded her statement after being discharged.

News reports quoted a senior police officer investigating the matter as saying a case has been registered under sections 376D of the Indian Penal Code and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO) Act.

Police added that all three accused are absconding.

 
&nbsp;

A second attacker was a classmate. The third attacker has not been identified

A 16-year-old girl was allegedly gang-raped by three youths including a relative for hours inside a moving a car in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh. The incident occurred on April 18, according to the victim's statement. The girl has alleged that three people, including a distant relative and a fellow classmate offered to drop her home since she had missed her school bus. But that the men then gang-raped her. The third accused in the case has not yet been unidentified. In her statement to police, the 16-year old has alleged her attackers forced her to have a spiked drink before they attacked her. The girl's parents filed a police complaint in the evening after she did not return home. The police later found her on a road near Knowledge Park at about 2 am in the morning. The girl, whe was unconscious when she was found, was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital. She recorded her statement after being discharged. News reports quoted a senior police officer investigating the matter as saying a case has been registered under sections 376D of the Indian Penal Code and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO) Act. Police added that all three accused are absconding.

Noida: 16-year-old girl allegedly gang-raped in moving car, 1 attacker was a relative

Former youth coach Barry Bennell was found guilty of multiple counts of child sexual abuse on Tuesday in an investigation that triggered hundreds of revelations about similar cases and rocked English football.

Bennell, a former coach at Crewe Alexandra, is being tried on 48 counts of abuse between 1979 and 1990.

Bennell, a former coach at Crewe Alexandra, is being tried on 48 counts of abuse between 1979 and 1990

Former youth coach Barry Bennell was found guilty of multiple counts of child sexual abuse on Tuesday in an investigation that triggered hundreds of revelations about similar cases and rocked English football. Bennell, a former coach at Crewe Alexandra, is being tried on 48 counts of abuse between 1979 and 1990.

Former UK football coach Barry Bennell convicted of child abuse

The 13 California siblings who police say were starved and chained to beds by their parents rarely left their dishevelled house and, when they did, they appeared small and pale and acted strangely, neighbours said.

David Allen Turpin, 57, and Louise Anna Turpin, 49, were arrested on Sunday and each charged with nine counts of torture and 10 counts of child endangerment after a 17-year-old, emaciated girl escaped their house in Perris, about 70 miles (115 km) east of Los Angeles and called police, the Riverside County Sheriff&#39;s Office said on Monday.

Police said in a statement that they found several of the couple&#39;s 13 children, ranging in age from 2 to 29, &quot;shackled to their beds with chains and padlocks in dark and foul-smelling surroundings&quot;.

&quot;The victims appeared to be malnourished and very dirty,&quot; it said.

Kimberly Milligan, 50, who lives across the street from the family, told Reuters that she only saw the infant in the mother&rsquo;s arms and three other children since she moved in across the street two years ago, describing them as small and pale.

&quot;Why don&rsquo;t we ever see the kids?&quot; Milligan said. &quot;In hindsight, we would have never thought this, but there were red flags. You don&rsquo;t hear or see nine kids.&quot;

Two years ago, while walking around the neighbourhood admiring Christmas lights and decorations, Milligan said she encountered three of the Turpin children and complimented them on the manager with a baby Jesus that they had outside their home. She said the children froze if by doing so they could become invisible.&nbsp;

&quot;20-year-olds never act like that,&quot; she said. &quot;They didn&#39;t want to have a social conversation.&quot;

Nicole Gooding, 35, who has lived in the neighbourhood for three years, said that the first time she saw the family was two months ago when the mother and children cleaning up the yard that was full of weeds and overflowing trash cans.

&ldquo;I had never seen them at all until that day,&rdquo; she said.

The parents, who are scheduled to appear in court on Thursday, are being held on $9 million bails, police said.

The police statement did not detail the parents&#39; motive for holding the children and a police spokesman said he had no further details.

Six of the couple&#39;s children are minors, while the other seven are over 18, parents said.

A Facebook page that appeared to have been created by the parents showed the couple dressed in wedding clothes, surrounded by 10 female children in matching purple plaid dresses and three male children in suits.

David Turpin&#39;s parents, James and Betty Turpin of West Virginia, told ABC News they are &quot;surprised and shocked&quot; by the allegations against their son and daughter-in-law, saying they can&#39;t understand &quot;any of this&quot;.

 
&nbsp;

David Allen Turpin, 57, and Louise Anna Turpin, 49, were arrested on Sunday

The 13 California siblings who police say were starved and chained to beds by their parents rarely left their dishevelled house and, when they did, they appeared small and pale and acted strangely, neighbours said. David Allen Turpin, 57, and Louise Anna Turpin, 49, were arrested on Sunday and each charged with nine counts of torture and 10 counts of child endangerment after a 17-year-old, emaciated girl escaped their house in Perris, about 70 miles (115 km) east of Los Angeles and called police, the Riverside County Sheriff's Office said on Monday. Police said in a statement that they found several of the couple's 13 children, ranging in age from 2 to 29, "shackled to their beds with chains and padlocks in dark and foul-smelling surroundings". "The victims appeared to be malnourished and very dirty," it said. Kimberly Milligan, 50, who lives across the street from the family, told Reuters that she only saw the infant in the mother’s arms and three other children since she moved in across the street two years ago, describing them as small and pale. "Why don’t we ever see the kids?" Milligan said. "In hindsight, we would have never thought this, but there were red flags. You don’t hear or see nine kids." Two years ago, while walking around the neighbourhood admiring Christmas lights and decorations, Milligan said she encountered three of the Turpin children and complimented them on the manager with a baby Jesus that they had outside their home. She said the children froze if by doing so they could become invisible. "20-year-olds never act like that," she said. "They didn't want to have a social conversation." Nicole Gooding, 35, who has lived in the neighbourhood for three years, said that the first time she saw the family was two months ago when the mother and children cleaning up the yard that was full of weeds and overflowing trash cans. “I had never seen them at all until that day,” she said. The parents, who are scheduled to appear in court on Thursday, are being held on $9 million bails, police said. The police statement did not detail the parents' motive for holding the children and a police spokesman said he had no further details. Six of the couple's children are minors, while the other seven are over 18, parents said. A Facebook page that appeared to have been created by the parents showed the couple dressed in wedding clothes, surrounded by 10 female children in matching purple plaid dresses and three male children in suits. David Turpin's parents, James and Betty Turpin of West Virginia, told ABC News they are "surprised and shocked" by the allegations against their son and daughter-in-law, saying they can't understand "any of this".

Parents charged after 13 siblings found starved, chained in California

According to a survey, more than 53 per cent children in India faced one or more forms of sexual abuse.

The Upper House of Parliament was informed about the same earlier today.&nbsp;

A 2007 study conducted by the Ministry of Women and Child Development included close to 13,000 children and covered 13 states to gauge child abuse trends across the country, Minister of State for Home, Hansraj Ahir, told Rajya Sabha today.&nbsp;

Children on street, at work and in institutional care reported the highest incidence of sexual assault, he said. 
&nbsp; 
Assam, Mizoram, Goa, Delhi, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat and Kerala were the states covered by the study.&nbsp;

According to the study, more than half (53%) of the total number of children interviewed for the study reported having faced one or more forms of sexual abuse.

Close to 21 per cent child respondents reported facing severe forms of sexual abuse while 50.76 per cent reported other forms of sexual abuse, the minister noted.&nbsp;

Ahir also revealed that 50 per cent abusers were persons known to the victim and most children did not report the matter to anyone.

(With inputs from PTI) 
&nbsp;

Children on street, at work and in institutional care reported the highest incidence of sexual assault, he said

According to a survey, more than 53 per cent children in India faced one or more forms of sexual abuse. The Upper House of Parliament was informed about the same earlier today. A 2007 study conducted by the Ministry of Women and Child Development included close to 13,000 children and covered 13 states to gauge child abuse trends across the country, Minister of State for Home, Hansraj Ahir, told Rajya Sabha today. Children on street, at work and in institutional care reported the highest incidence of sexual assault, he said. Assam, Mizoram, Goa, Delhi, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat and Kerala were the states covered by the study. According to the study, more than half (53%) of the total number of children interviewed for the study reported having faced one or more forms of sexual abuse. Close to 21 per cent child respondents reported facing severe forms of sexual abuse while 50.76 per cent reported other forms of sexual abuse, the minister noted. Ahir also revealed that 50 per cent abusers were persons known to the victim and most children did not report the matter to anyone. (With inputs from PTI)

'53 per cent children face one or more forms of sexual abuse,' says Minister of State for Home

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