ABSTRACT
This chapter critically explores the mandatory reporting provisions under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act 2012 in cases of child sexual abuse, compelling professionals like teachers, medical personnel, and social workers to promptly report suspected cases to relevant authorities. Despite its gravity, a prevalent “conspiracy of silence” often envelops child sexual abuse cases, with individuals, organizations, and entire communities choosing to overlook or conceal the issue. Justifications behind this silence range from fear of retaliation to the desire to protect the abuser’s reputation, rooted in shame or the perception that such abuse is a private matter not meant for public disclosure. The ramifications of this silence are profound, with victims of child sexual assault potentially denied the protection they deserve and continue to suffer the abuse. Moreover, it emboldens abusers, fostering an environment where crimes persist unabated due to the perpetrators’ confidence that they will remain unreported and undiscovered. This chapter emphasizes the societal responsibility to break this silent pact, advocating for the crucial role of reporting child sexual abuse, on the one hand and the rights of the child and guardians, urging a conservative approach to prevent unwarranted accusations, on the other hand.
