Behind the screens: Understanding the gaps in India's fight against online child sexual abuse and exploitation
Daniel Manoj, Ranjit Immanuel James, Senthil Kumaran, Gerard Pradeep Devnath, Benjy Tom Varughese, Antony L Arakkal, Latif Rajesh Johnson
Abstract
In today's digital age, where children are increasingly exposed to online platforms, the prevalence of online child sexual abuse and exploitation poses a significant threat to their safety and well-being. This article examines the multifaceted issue of online child sexual abuse and exploitation, focusing on interpersonal cybercrimes and the legal provisions in India aimed at combating these offenses. It highlights the vulnerabilities faced by children in digital environments, particularly exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has led to a surge in internet usage among young users. The overarching aim of the article is to analyze existing legal frameworks in India and compare them with those of other countries, advocating for improved protective measures and policies to effectively combat these crimes. Key recommendations include mandatory reporting of online child sexual abuse, due diligence by Internet Service Providers (ISPs), and the establishment of log retention periods to facilitate effective cybercrime investigations. A comprehensive approach involving parents, lawmakers, NGOs, and law enforcement agencies is essential for combating online child sexual abuse. Furthermore, leveraging new technological solutions and signing international conventions is proposed to enhance cooperation and improve prosecution efforts across borders. In conclusion, protecting children from online sexual abuse requires a concerted effort to update legal frameworks, raise awareness, and implement effective measures to safeguard their digital well-being. The urgency for comprehensive, stringent, and unambiguous legal provisions cannot be overstated, as the safety of our children depends on it. • In today's digital era, children face increasing risks of online child sexual abuse and exploitation, which the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated. • Moreover, technological advancements, such as encrypted messaging platforms and peer-to-peer networks, have made detecting and prosecuting offenders increasingly difficult. • The existing legislations in India has several significant gaps, thereby limiting the effective protection for children in the digital realm. • In this article, we analyse and compare the Indian legal frameworks with those of other jurisdictions and advocate for improved policies to combat these crimes effectively.