In a proactive move to protect children from sexual harassment and violence, the Punjab government has instructed the Interior Ministry to incorporate a ‘Good Touch, Bad Touch’ module into school curricula. This decision comes in response to alarming statistics revealing that over 5,000 children in Punjab have fallen victim to sexual violence and harassment in the past 14 months, with nearly 2,000 others facing attempted abuse. In Lahore alone, 370 children have suffered sexual abuse in 2024.
To address this critical issue, Punjab’s Secretary of Interior, Mr Noorul Amin Mengal, has launched a campaign to educate children about self-protection through a dedicated chapter in school textbooks. The initiative emphasizes teaching children to differentiate between appropriate and inappropriate physical behavior in a positive and empowering manner. The goal is to equip children with the knowledge to recognize, resist, and report predatory behavior.
The directive also highlights the importance of involving parents and teachers in educating children about reporting inappropriate behavior, both at home and in public spaces. Recognizing the lifelong trauma caused by sexual abuse, the government has stressed the need to bring perpetrators to justice and empower children to speak out against exploitation.
To ensure the effectiveness of the campaign, experts will be consulted to design the ‘Good Touch, Bad Touch’ module. This initiative, developed in collaboration with the Child Protection and Welfare Bureau, Punjab, aims to safeguard the next generation from abuse and exploitation.
In addition to educational measures, a special police cell has been established to investigate and apprehend individuals involved in child sexual abuse. Several suspects have already been arrested, with cases submitted to courts, while investigations continue against others. This comprehensive approach underscores the government’s commitment to creating a safer environment for children.