Child sex abuse: 88% perpetratorswere known to survivors, says VAU

Panaji: A report from the state’s victim assistance unit (VAU) on sexual abuse of children, including rape, has revealed that data over the past 12 years shows that around 88% of perpetrators were known to the survivors.

The report was submitted to chief minister Pramod Sawant. The VAU, constituted under the Goa Children’s Act, submitted a comprehensive analysis of 3,949 cases documented between 2014 and 2026, which were referred by various authorities.

The report synthesises trends in sexual abuse, domestic violence, kidnapping, assault, trafficking and related offences, with detailed analysis of victim demographics, perpetrator relationships and geographic distribution.

The data reveals a consistent upward trajectory in cases over the 12-year period, from 202 cases in 2014 to a peak of 522 in 2023, before declining to 419 in 2024, 364 in 2025, and 32 in 2026 (Jan-Feb).

“This rise likely reflects both an increase in actual incidents and improved reporting mechanisms. Female victims constitute 70.8% of all cases, and children and adolescents under 18 years account for 73.1% of total victims, a finding of grave concern that underscores the need for sustained child protection policies,” said the unit’s coordinator, Emidio Pinho.

The year-wise analysis demonstrates a clear and sustained increase in reported cases over the 12-year period.

From a baseline of 202 cases in 2014, case numbers climbed steadily to 312 by 2019, a 54% increase in five years, said Pinho.

“There was a continued increase in 2020 and 2021 despite the Covid-19 pandemic, with 317 and 366 cases respectively, suggesting that domestic confinement may have exacerbated domestic and intra-family violence,” he said.

The year 2023 represents a significant peak with 522 reported cases, the highest in the entire 12-year dataset. This may reflect increased public awareness, improved reporting infrastructure, and greater trust in the VAU, he said. The subsequent decline warrants monitoring to determine whether this is a sustained reduction or a reporting artefact.

“Establishing effective systems was challenging at the outset. Nevertheless, through the collective cooperation and commitment of all stakeholders, we were able to overcome numerous obstacles and achieve significant progress. It was particularly encouraging that our recommendations were accepted and supported by the concerned authorities,” said Pinho.

By analysing trends in reported cases, VAU identified specific areas showing an increase in incidents and accordingly intensified awareness programmes in schools and higher secondary institutions in those regions. “Awareness sessions in collaboration with the police were conducted in govt schools to enhance understanding among students,” he said.


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