More than 5,700 cases of sexual abuse involving minor boys and girls were reported in Punjab over a six-year period, according to an official report.
The report states that between the last six years, a total of 5,761 cases of sexual violence against children were registered across the province. Among these, 638 cases involved gang rape of minors.
Police had named 9,524 suspects in cases involving minors. However, 1,073 of these suspects could not be arrested. In gang rape cases, 1,710 suspects were named, of whom 258 remain at large.
The report further reveals that challans — the final investigation reports submitted to courts — were completed in 5,756 cases of sexual abuse against minors. In gang rape cases, challans were completed in 518 cases, while 334 cases are still under investigation and one case remains untraced.
Child rights experts have repeatedly emphasised the need for stronger enforcement, faster trials, and improved victim protection mechanisms to tackle sexual violence against children. Despite increased reporting, gaps in investigation and arrests highlight ongoing challenges in addressing the issue across Punjab.
