Karnataka State Women’s Commission Chairperson Nagalakshmi Choudhary has said that it is deeply disturbing that even after enacting several laws, crimes against minors had continue, which is a matter of concern.

Speaking to presspersons after visiting the district hospital and the mother-and-child hospital in Dharwad on May 18, she said that Dharwad district had recorded 83 POCSO cases involving children below 18 years in the last three years. Of these, 12 cases involved child marriage and teenage pregnancy, while 33 minor girls had become mothers after sexual assault. In 22 cases, girls had reportedly undergone abortion due to social pressure and stigma. She called for collective social responsibility to prevent such incidents.

Lauding the services being provided at the Dharwad District Hospital, she said that the positive feedback from patients and attendants reflected the commitment of doctors and healthcare staff.

During her inspection, Dr. Nagalakshmi interacted with patients, attendants and healthcare workers. She particularly reviewed the maternity ward, and appreciated the efforts of doctors in safeguarding the lives of mothers and newborns.

She said the district hospital had conducted around 550 safe deliveries in a month, and successfully handled 82 critical cases involving mothers and infants. “Protecting the lives of mothers and children is a highly responsible task. The doctors here are carrying it out with dedication,” she said.

She also visited the Sakhi One Stop Centre functioning at the hospital, and examined records relating to women and child welfare cases. Referring to the shortage of Group-D staff, nurses, doctors and MRI scanning facilities in government hospitals, she assured that the she would bring it to the notice of the government of Karnataka.