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Dr Yahya bin Zaher al Hinai, director common for Family Development in MoSD stated, “We received 678 calls including 330 related to cases of abuse and neglect of children. Of these 330, there were 93 related to physical abuse, 54 for psychological abuse, 34 for sexual abuse and 149 were related to neglect.”
He stated that the maximum quantity of instances of abuse have been reported in Muscat (157), followed by North Batinah (67), South Batinah (31), Dakhliyah (21), South Sharqiyah (17), Dhahirah (13), North Sharqiyah (12), Buraimi (eight) and Dhofar Governorate (4). No calls have been received from Al Wusta and Musandam governorates.”
Dr Hinai stated that all instances are transferred to youngster protection committees who stick to-up with the concerned authorities. “Some children need immediate social, psychological and medical help. There are cases which call for immediate intervention by child protection officials. In such cases, the child is shifted to Dar al Wefaq (temporary care house) under the Family Protection Department. This house is dedicated for the protection and rehabilitation of abused children.”
He stated that the hotline is operational 24×7. “The line ensures complete confidentiality of information. It provides an opportunity for children to speak about the issues that affect them and their problems. The ministry is making efforts to tackle child abuse menace by spreading awareness in the community on best ways to deal with children’s issues.”
He stated that youngster protection officials in the ministry pay a visit to households that abuse or neglect their youngsters. “The officials prepare an action plan to deal with the problem. Legal specialists in the ministry also raise awareness on the laws and legislations on child protection.”
Information Source: Muscat Daily
