Module 5.6

5.6 Physical Abuse and Corporal Punishment

5.6.1 Nature of the Issue

Physical abuse includes any intentional physical force used against a child that results in pain, injury or harm, including hitting, beating, slapping, burning, kicking, choking, or use of objects.

Corporal punishment refers to using physical force for discipline, whether at home, school, workplace or institutions.

Children may be abused by parents, teachers, employers, caregivers, community members or strangers  often in private settings.

5.6.2 Applicable Legal Framework 

Police must apply the relevant provisions of:

Police Rule of Application
️⃣Identify applicable PPC offence(s)
️⃣Follow CrPC procedure
️⃣Apply Sindh corporal-punishment and child-protection laws where relevant

5.6.3 Immediate Police Response – First Contact SOP

Police must:

• Assess immediate safety of the child
• Register FIR where a cognisable offence exists
• Prevent intimidation by the accused
• Ensure medico-legal examination where injuries exist
• Record statements calmly and sensitively
• Keep details confidential
• Refer the case to the Sindh Child Protection Authority (SCPA) where protection concerns exist
• Consider safe placement if home is unsafe

When Parents or Guardians Are Involved – Police Guidance

Police must recognise that:

✔ Parents do not have a legal right to beat or harm a child
✔ Cultural acceptance does not override the law
✔ Many children suffer in silence due to fear or dependency
✔ Treat families respectfully and professionally but prioritise the child’s safety.
✔ Violence is not a private matter. It is a legal and protection concern.

What Police Must Never Do

✘ Dismiss the report as a “family matter”
✘ Suggest compromise or settlement
✘ Blame or pressure the child
✘ Use force or threats
✘ Keep the child in police custody unnecessarily

5.6.4 Coordination and Referral 

Training Note for Police

If a child reports being beaten by a parent, teacher, employer or institution,  treat it as a protection case, not discipline.