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Documented by Goa Desc Resource Centre (GDRC)
Email: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
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NGOs blast CIF findings on paedophilia in Goa
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The Childline India Foundation (CIF) came in for severe criticism
from representatives of non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
and government officials for its findings on paedophilia and sexual
abuse of children in Goa.
Presenting the study on paedophilia and child abuse in Goa in its
programme "Is Goa safe for children a critical consultation",
Chitrakala Acharya of CIF, Mumbai made a startling revelation that
paedophilia victims in Apna Ghar (children's home run by the State)
are bribed not to disclose the names of paedophiles.
The ghar is perceived as a 'ghastly place' it is like jumping from
the frying pan into the fire for children. There are also cases of children
running away from such homes, the study said.
Representatives of NGOs and government officials strongly objected
to some of the findings, which they said were totally false. Registering
their protest in the strongest words NGO representatives as well the
Director of Women and Child, T S Sawant, and Dr D S Cunkolienkar,
Chairman of the Child Welfare Committee asked the organisers to
reveal the sources who provided the said information. They also asked
whether CIF had any proof to support their findings.
Sawant who appeared very upset by the findings said, "it is a foolish
recording which is not backed by any evidence". "The findings are
misleading, and shouldn't have been made public without being
supported by evidence", he said repeatedly asking the organisers
to disclose their source of information.
Dr Cuncolienkar said he had no idea of any such happening at
Apna Ghar, and clarified paedophile victims were never kept there.
The organisers, however, maintained that it was a qualitative and
not quantitative study based on the perspective of key stakeholders
interviewed while turning down the request for disclosing the sources.
Another finding having negative connotation presented was appointment
of judges not being impartial they are political appointees. However,
taking strong objection to this revelation Adv. Shanti Fonseca said
Children's Court in the State is headed by one of the senior most
and best mind in the judiciary.
The Director of Prosecution Shoba Dhumaskar registering her objections
said, it is not right to make such statements without evidence.
Though criticized from all sides organisers, nevertheless, persisted that
their study was qualitative and had to maintain confidentiality of the
stakeholders interviewed who had spoken off the record.
Adv Fonseca demanded to know when Goa had become unsafe for
children, suggesting the study presented by CIF should have been
more specific.
Giving more details about the study Achraya said, as per some respondents,
the paedophile problem is much hyped about by NGOs in lure of funds. The
issue was not serious as it is made out to be. Other respondents said
problem of paedophilia was indeed serious in Goa.
"Goa provides excessive freedom to tourists. However, better tourism
management could tackle the problem. There has to be control on
foreigners purchasing land in this State", she submitted.
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HERALD 29/7/06 page 1
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GOA DESC RESOURCE CENTRE
Documentation + Education + Solidarity
11 Liberty Apts., Feira Alta, Mapusa, Goa 403 507
mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]
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Working On Issues Of Development & Democracy
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