Child Protection Unit

Any child in distress — abuse, trafficking, missing, runaway, medical emergency, or child labour — can call 1098. Free, confidential, 24×7. Bystanders who witness child abuse, child labour, or trafficking should also call. Reports can be anonymous.

The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act protects every person under 18. §19 makes failure to report a known offence punishable with up to 6 months imprisonment. Victim identity is legally protected — media disclosure is a criminal offence under §23.