8-Year-Old Sexually Assaulted At School Premises — Here Are Signs Parents Should Never Ignore

A spine-chilling story has come to light from Karnataka, where an 8-year-old, class 2nd student has reportedly been sexually assaulted in her school premises. The incident took place on 31st January however, the little girl did not disclose it until the child started experiencing severe pain & bleeding, and confided in her mother. The latter immediately rushed to the Mandya Central police station to file a complaint. 

According to the child’s statement, as shared by Mandya Superintendent of Police (SP) Mallikarjun Baladandi, the girl was allegedly taken to the washroom by two boys from her school and threatened to remove her clothes. The girl was reportedly trashed with a stick and hit on her private parts. She has identified one of the boys as her classmate and the other one was a senior. They threatened her not to talk to anyone about it, but the little girl eventually found the courage to tell her mother. 

Also read:
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How Sexual Assault Happens At School

Sexual assault at school may have different forms and can range from verbal harassment to physical assault. While the first thing that may come to your mind is non-consensual sex, it also includes:

1. Groping  and inappropriate touching

2. Inappropriate gestures

3. Penetrating objects in private parts

4. Asking for sexual favours

5. Using inappropriate words 

6. Sending texts with sexual connotations

7. Repeated and unwanted approaches 

Signs Of Sexual Abuse In A Child

It is important to understand that many children who are subjected to sexual assault may be too scared to inform their parents about their trauma. It is important to stay informed and watch out for any potential signs or cues. These include:

1. Knowing too much about sex and related topics, or asking many questions about it

2. Unexplained changes in the child’s eating habits

3. Unexplained bruises or marks on the child’s body

4. Abrupt change in behaviour and stays quiet all the time

5. Spending more time by themselves and avoiding going out

6. Trying to avoid certain people  

7. Unexplained changes in mood and becoming more aggressive

8. Losing interest in school and extra-curricular activities 

9. Being reluctant to remove or change clothes in front of you

As parents, it is important to create a safe space and talk to your children to make sure that they feel comfortable sharing anything with you. For smaller children, help them understand the difference between good and bad touch, and for older ones, you can talk a little more openly. 

Reading these blogs might help

Child Abuse Impact & Precautions to Help Child & Family to Cope-up

How to talk to your child about sex- Useful Inputs from Parents

Teach 10 Ways to Protect Child From Molestation, Rape

Good Touch, Bad Touch - Know the Difference

Ways to Teach Children Good Touch & Bad Touch