Minister of Gender, Family and Social Services Shidhatha Shareef has said the number of cases submitted to the ministry has increased this year. Speaking to media, Gender Minister Shidhatha Shareef revealed so far this year over 2,300 cases have been reported with 50% of the cases related to children. Minister Shidhatha said efforts are being exerted to minimise the number of such cases.
Moreover, the gender minister highlighted the ministry aims to closely work with the people and has established committees in 89 islands. The minister expressed hope to generate more opportunities for persons with disabilities.
A total of 166 cases have been attended last month, according to latest statistics of the gender ministry. 78 cases were attended regarding violence against children, which amounts to 47% of the total cases received and attended in November. The most frequently reported cases in this category involve cases of negligence, of which 23 cases were reported during the period.
Other forms of violence against children include 21 cases of sexual abuse, 14 cases of physical violence, 11 cases of emotional abuse, 6 cases of victims of bullying and harassment, 1 case of victims of cyber bullying, 1 case of witnesses to domestic violence and 1 case of exploitation.
Meanwhile, a total of 5 cases were attended regarding child rights violations. Reports include 2 cases of refusal of access to education, 1 case of denial of birth registration, 1 case of refusal to acquire national identity card or passport or birth certificate and 1 case of violation of right to shelter.