Pune: The city of Pimpri-Chinchwad has witnessed an increase in cases of sexual violence against minor girls over the past eight months. According to recent statistics, 78 cases of sexual assault and 66 cases of molestation involving minor girls have been reported during this period.

This rise in crime against minors has intensified concerns about their safety, especially in the wake of the Badlapur incident, which has raised serious questions about the protection of girls within their own communities.

The Badlapur incident has sparked widespread outrage across Maharashtra, leading to increased scrutiny of the safety of minor girls. In many cases, perpetrators have been found to lure minor girls with promises of chocolates, only to exploit and abuse them.

This has highlighted the need for parents to personally educate their daughters about the differences between good and bad touch, rather than relying solely on schools or external authorities.

In Pimpri-Chinchwad, of the 78 rape cases involving minor girls, chargesheets have been filed in 56 cases. Similarly, in the 66 reported cases of molestation, chargesheets have been filed in 40 cases.

Parents are advised not to ignore what their children are trying to communicate. Often, children make efforts to convey significant things to their parents.

It is essential for parents to take these matters seriously, listen attentively, and maintain good communication with their children's teachers at school. If a child is spending time alone, parents should engage them in conversation.