Madikeri: A staggering 59 cases under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Pocso) Act were recorded in Kodagu district, with 30 minors found pregnant, officials confirmed. Among them, one underwent an abortion, 15 are currently expecting, and 14 have given birth.
Despite awareness campaigns led by the district administration, child protection unit, and women and child welfare department, cases surged between April and December last year.
Kodagu District Child Protection Officer B Eraswamy highlighted that a significant number of victims resided in plantation line houses, where alcoholism, parental neglect, and lack of legal awareness contributed to their vulnerability. Of the 59 cases, 24 occurred in plantation housing settlements, with victims aged between 15 and 17.
Authorities cite illiteracy, broken families, and sexual exploitation as primary causes. Following a review meeting with the District Commissioner, officials are designing a targeted program to address the issue.
Legal proceedings are underway, with 10 cases still under investigation and 48 currently in court. One case resulted in acquittal. Additionally, five child marriages were reported in the last eight months—one was prevented, while legal action was initiated against those involved. Nine complaints were found to be false.
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