Mangaluru: School-related issues emerged as the leading reason for Child Helpline interventions in Dakshina Kannada during 2025-26, accounting for 182 of the 491 cases handled by the district child protection unit (DCPU) between April 2025 and March 2026.A total of 37% of the caseload, were school related concerns, including complaints of corporal punishment, bullying, ragging, potential dropouts, behavioural issues and counselling needs, which was nearly three times the the second-largest category– 62 cases of child-begging cases. The helpline handled an average of 41 cases a month.District child protection officer Rashmi said every complaint was examined and counselling provided where necessary. Some children, she noted, reported alleged abuse after misunderstanding disciplinary measures taken by parents or teachers. “Committee members spoke to the children and explained appropriate use of the helpline when such complaints are received,” she said.Of the 491 complaints, 455 were found to be genuine and 36 were classified as false. Officials cautioned against dismissing complaints as mere misunderstandings. Section 17 of the Right to Free and Compulsory Education Act prohibits physical punishment and mental harassment in schools.The helpline handled 36 cases of physical abuse, 33 sexual abuse cases and 21 emotional abuse calls, together accounting for over 18% of the annual caseload. Other interventions included 25 cases involving children found alone in public places, 24 counselling cases, 23 family-related issues and 20 cases of child labour.There were also 14 missing-child cases, 12 requests for shelter, 12 cases of neglect and nine involving child marriage. Other complaints related to cybercrime, hostel issues, adoption, addiction, medical assistance and anganwadis.BOXCases at a glanceSchool-related issues 182Child beggary 62Physical abuse 36Child sexual abuse 33Child found alone in a public place 25Counselling 24Family issues 23Emotional abuse 21Child labour 20Missing children 14Other categories 51Total 491*Source: DCPU ChildhelplineBox-2Inside child helpline dataHelpline dealt with average of 41 cases a monthSchool-related issues topped the list, accounting for 37% of the total casesPhysical, sexual and emotional abuse collectively accounted for 90 cases
