Child helpline 1098 missing in many Bengaluru schools, govt plan falls flat

In an effort to protect children from abuse and ensure timely assistance, the Karnataka Education Department had made it mandatory for all government and pre-university schools in Bengaluru to display the child helpline number 1098 prominently on school walls. This was part of a larger initiative to create awareness among children about the support available to them during distressing situations.

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Despite the department’s well-intentioned plan, ground reality reveals a concerning gap in implementation. The Child Rights Commission has highlighted that many schools in the city have failed to comply with the directive. Several institutions have not painted the helpline number on their premises, leaving students unaware of its existence and purpose.

The helpline operates 24/7 and plays a critical role in reporting and responding to cases of child abuse, harassment, and emotional distress. The department had also instructed schools to mention the helpline during daily assemblies to normalize conversations around children's safety and empower them to seek help. However, with non-compliance rampant, the plan to reduce child-related crimes and provide immediate assistance seems to be faltering.

The Child Rights Commission has now formally approached the education department, urging it to enforce the rule strictly and ensure all schools adhere to the guidelines. The failure to implement such basic protective measures risks rendering the entire initiative ineffective, potentially endangering vulnerable children.