Vishü Rita Krocha
Going just one generation back, child abuse was something that was almost unheard of, in the Naga society. Education wasn't as rampant as it is today and there were many young girls and relatives who did not go to school and were willing to help around the house of those couples who were just starting a new family or families who needed help with household chores.
The need for hiring a domestic help or a baby sitter was never even felt. And the best part was that these 'family helpers' actually enjoyed helping around or being the nanny for their baby relatives or cousins. This also meant that children growing up in that state, were safe, and more importantly it meant that they grew up without ugly scars that are bound to impact their overall wellbeing sooner or later whether it is emotionally, physically or psychologically.
But that was a generation ago. Things have rapidly changed in the last few decades. Every child is going to school. Every parent is a working professional. And hence, the need for "domestic help".
On June 12 while observing ‘World Day Against Child Labour’ last year, it was highlighted that over 700 children in the age group of 5-18 are estimated to be employed as ‘domestic helpers’ in Kohima alone. As far as the case of abuse of domestic helpers is concerned, the total number is estimated to have crossed 100 from across all districts of Nagaland.
While it has become a dire necessity for 'domestic helpers' with the increase in the number of working parents, it is deeply concerning that the so called 'domestic workers' are often children in the context of Nagaland.
It goes without saying that it is highly critical for children to grow up in a safe and a nurturing family environment. Any form of abuse whether it is physical, psychological, emotional, or sexual abuse can turn childhood memories into severely traumatic experiences when they grow up and leave lasting scars.
The recent case of a 9-year-old girl being abused by her guardian is a stark revelation of what "children domestic workers" in the state are facing. As it is, most of the cases go unreported and to think that there is a possibility of several more innocent children going through such a traumatic experience all across the state, is very disturbing.
The tragedy of it all is that most children don't even realise that they are victims of child abuse and as they grow up, there is every possibility that they blame themselves in the long run. As a result, they are faced with poor academic performance, low self-esteem and several other problems.
Child abuse is a social evil and because today's children are the torch bearers of our future, our society must endeavour to fight this social evil. Child abuse is child abuse regardless of where it takes place or in whatever form it comes and it must be stopped for the future wellbeing of our society. And more importantly because every child has the right to a safe, secure and a happy childhood.
This is a guest editorial by Vishü Rita Krocha. She is the Publisher of PenThrill Publication and a senior journalist based in Kohima
