goa childrens act

NEET-UG 2026 exam cancellation due to paper leak has deeply affected lakhs of students. Families face financial strain and students endure immense mental pressure. This incident raises serious questions about the integrity of competitive examinations in India. The system's credibility is shaken, while also impacting the aspirations of countless young individuals.

Goa's rabies control efforts show significant shortcomings, with a third of pet owners neglecting vaccinations and sterilization rates alarmingly low. A joint survey revealed poor access to vet services, widespread myths, and a lack of effective bite reporting. Preventable rabies deaths remain a real risk without immediate, targeted interventions and community engagement.

A victim assistance unit report reveals that 88% of child sexual abuse perpetrators were known to survivors over 12 years. Cases rose significantly, peaking in 2023, with female victims and those under 18 being the most affected. The VAU intensified awareness programs in response to identified trends.

Pedestrians in India face a daily risk on roads, despite having the legal right of way. Systemic neglect in infrastructure design, with a severe lack of usable footpaths, forces them onto carriageways. This leads to a tragic pattern of pedestrian fatalities, highlighting a critical failure in urban planning that prioritizes vehicles over people.

Soham Naik, already facing charges in a Curchorem sexual abuse case, has been re-arrested by the crime branch for a new assault involving a minor. This marks the fifth FIR against him, with charges under POCSO and BNS. Police have seized an SUV linked to the incident. Naik was previously remanded to judicial custody as investigations into multiple allegations continue.

A man was arrested in Margao, Goa, for allegedly indecently exposing himself to two young children at a store. The incident occurred on Friday, and the accused was apprehended later that night. A case has been registered against him under relevant sections of the law, including POCSO.

The Bombay High Court has denied a father's plea to re-examine his minor daughter, whom he allegedly raped, and other family members. The court cited the severe trauma already experienced by the survivor and witnesses, emphasizing that recalling them would cause further distress and hinder a fair trial. Such attempts to reopen cross-examination were deemed unfair and impermissible.

Goa BJP councillor's son, Soham Naik, arrested for allegedly sexually exploiting minors, recording videos, and circulating them online. Investigations reveal incidents occurred when both accused and survivors were minors. The case has been transferred to the state crime branch, with Naik remanded to four-day police custody.

Goa has enacted a new law mandating a minimum age of six years for Class I admission in recognized schools, effective immediately. A one-year transitional provision allows children aged 5.5 years to enroll for the current academic year. The amendment also establishes age criteria for higher class admissions, ensuring standard progression.