Overview

As a result of the awareness created through CRG's campaign and the sessions it conducts in schools it has received numerous calls for assistance in cases of abuse within the community and of suspected cases of travelling sex offenders. In 2004 the Goa Police set up the Goa Police Women and Child Protection Unit. Since the setting up of this unit the police have asked CRG to assist with numerous cases of child abuse. In response to the need to assist the child victims referred to CRG the Child Protection Cell (CPC) was constituted.

The CPC monitors cases by networking with the community, police and the office of the Director of Prosecution. The cell comprises a case coordinator, a lawyer and a counsellor. It gives the necessary support to the children by providing psychological and social support and legal assistance.

When cases have been reported the cell has assisted the police in various stages of investigation. It has also helped by securing the presence of witnesses before the Children's Court. The CPC has assisted in the repatriation of victims and also works with the Child Welfare Committee in planning the rehabilitation of victims admitted to Apna Ghar, the government home for children in need of care and protection.