The National Child Protection Authority (NCPA) yesterday said that the number of complaints received by the NCPA hotline 1929, had increased sharply from 1,391 complaints in 2009 to 3,811 complaints in 2010.

According to the NCPA data, the number of complaints received on child abductions in 2009 was five and it increased to 31 in 2010. Complaints on the lack of care and protection of children rose from 166 complaints to 642 complaints. Complaints on child marriages rose from seven in to 101 complaints. Complaints on child beggars increased from 15 to 91.

Complaints on children not receiving compulsory education increased from 103 to 452. Domestic violence against children rose from 40 to 79. Rape increased from 94 to 130 while incest rose from 38 to 125. Child labour increased from 79 to 152. Sexual harassment increased from 30 to 148 complaints.

NCPA sources said one of the reasons for the immense increase in child abuse complaints was due to the growing awareness of the NCPA hotline. However the sources said that it was also due to an immense increase in certain types of child abuse such as vast internet exposure in internet cafes, cell phones and other equipment. (Olindhi Jayasundere)