Child abuse is a significant issue in India, with various forms including physical, emotional, sexual abuse and neglect. Despite legal frameworks aimed at protecting children, the prevalence of child abuse remains high due to various factors such as poverty, lack of education, cultural norms, and inadequate enforcement of laws.
Kidzee, the preschool initiative of Zee Learn, organised a major run in New Delhi to raise awareness about child safety and fight against child abuse. Over 1,000 children from more than 50 schools across Delhi NCR, Rewari and Muzaffarnagar participated in this significant event on Saturday, October 19. During the event, school teachers performed a skit to educate the audience on the importance of creating a secure environment for children.
Manish Rastogi, Whole-time Director and CEO of Zee Learn Limited, emphasised the urgency of student safety in light of recent incidents. He stated, “Parents trust schools to provide a safe environment for their children, especially given the fees they pay. As a society, it’s crucial that we work together to keep educational institutions safe, especially for girls. This race not only raises awareness but also promotes education on this vital issue.”
During the COVID-19 pandemic, child abuse cases saw an alarming rise due to lockdowns, which increased children’s vulnerability to domestic violence, stress, and economic hardships.
Anish Shah, CFO of Zee Learn Limited, added, “Negligence around women’s safety is the root cause of these recurring incidents. All educational institutions, from kindergarten to postgraduate levels, must enforce strict safety protocols. Schools and colleges must thoroughly vet their staff and implement comprehensive safety measures to prevent such incidents.”