35% of Victims Sexually Assaulted Within Families Are Aged 12-15, Report Severe Trauma, Need Special Support

More than half the survivors of incestuous sexual assault—35% were aged 12 to 15—reported being shamed by police and told to withdraw cases, according to an unpublished study by the writer of this piece in partnership with the Delhi Commission for Women. Most reported severe trauma and needed special support in forms of counselling and legal guidance. National crime data show over 96% of rapes were by people known to the survivor, about 9% of these from within families.

11 Oct 2024        SHAISTA NAAZ