Family Ministry receives 228 cases in July: Child abuse cases most prevalent
31 އޯގަސްޓު 2026 | ހޯމަ 07:54The family ministry attended to 228 cases in July, including 88 reports of child abuse and 54 cases of domestic violence. According to official statistics, the Ministry also provided support for mental health concerns and elderly care, while receiving a significant volume of calls across various helplines from individuals seeking assistance.
From a protest held against child abuse. | The Press
Statistics released by the Ministry of Health, Family and Welfare indicate that cases involving various forms of child abuse were the most frequently reported issues to the ministry this past July.
Statistics released by the Family Ministry reveal that a total of 228 cases were reported and attended to during July 2026. Among these, 88 cases involved various forms of violence against children. This figure includes reports concerning 34 boys and 54 girls.
A detailed breakdown of child abuse cases reveals that 22 cases of negligence, 17 cases of sexual abuse, and 14 cases of children witnessing domestic violence were reported. Furthermore, statistics show that nine cases of psychological abuse, seven cases of physical abuse, and four cases of blackmail were also filed. The Ministry additionally received reports involving bullying, cyberbullying, cyber exploitation, and child grooming.
A total of 15 cases involving behavioral issues in children were reported this past July, involving 11 boys and four girls. These cases included three instances of aggression, two reports of children running away from home, and four cases of school refusal. Additionally, one case regarding children's rights was filed concerning the failure to register a birth.
A total of 54 cases of gender-based violence and domestic abuse were reported during this period, involving 45 female and 9 male victims. Physical assault was the most frequently reported offense, with 32 cases documented. The reports also included 12 cases of psychological abuse or verbal harassment, three cases of intimidation, and three cases of sexual assault. Additionally, authorities received one report of rape and several instances of property damage.
The Ministry has attended to 14 cases involving individuals in need of care and support. This includes seven cases related to mental health issues, one case concerning assistance for a person with disabilities, and one case involving support for an elderly person.
According to the ministry's helpline statistics, the Child Helpline (1412) received a total of 1,412 calls. This figure includes 943 calls made by children and 649 calls from adults. Meanwhile, the Social Service Helpline (1421) received a total of 1,421 calls, which included 185 calls from children and 155 from adults. Regarding counseling services, a total of 226 sessions were conducted, alongside 64 training sessions and 15 parenting workshops.
