The above is an awareness video shot in association with Hyderabad City Police and Bharosa Support Centre for Women and Child to raise awareness about Child Helpline number 1098. 

Child sexual abuse is a reality across the world and in India, and it is our duty to stop and prevent it. There has been a tremendous rise in the number of child marriages, forced child labour and child sexual abuse cases in India amid the pandemic. Though we have a national hotline for child protection 1098, there is very low public awareness of both the hotline number and the problem. 

With an aim to strengthen the child protection system in India, I and my team, in association with Hyderabad City Police and Bharosa Support Centre for Women and Child, have been spreading awareness on how a young child in distress could reach out for help by dialing four digits — a number that can save a life, 1098. 1098 is also my Beauty With A Purpose project. Report any incident of child abuse at 1098 or dial 100, and rest assured, your call to remain anonymous. 

In addition, let us take a step towards training our children and help them understand the difference between good touch and bad touch. As parents and teachers, it is critical to understand and look out for signs such as depression to ensure and prevent child sexual abuse.