Gaps in India’s Fight Against Sexual Abuse: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Sexual abuse remains a significant public health and human rights concern in India, with far-reaching psychological, physical, social, and legal consequences. Despite legislative reforms and policy initiatives, the burden of sexual violence continues to be substantial, with considerable underreporting and systemic gaps in prevention and response. This narrative review aims to synthesise existing evidence on sexual abuse in India, focusing on prevalence, institutional challenges, legal frameworks, survivor outcomes, and prevention strategies. The review integrates multidisciplinary evidence from peer-reviewed literature, government reports, and international organisational publications. Findings indicate that sexual abuse is highly prevalent, with a significant proportion of perpetrators known to victims, particularly in cases involving women and children. Persistent challenges include underreporting, delayed legal processes, victim-blaming, inadequate support systems, and limited trauma-informed care across institutions. Survivors experience complex and long-term psychological, behavioural, and physical consequences, underscoring the need for comprehensive rehabilitation services. Although India has implemented several initiatives, including legal frameworks such as the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and various government schemes, gaps remain in accessibility, awareness, and implementation. The review highlights the importance of a multisectoral approach that incorporates prevention, early intervention, survivor-centred care, and systemic reforms. Strengthening institutional capacity, promoting community awareness, and ensuring effective policy execution are essential to address the ongoing challenges and improve outcomes for survivors.