A petition to be sent to parliament saying that the punishment for the child sex abuse offenders are too lenient and which calls the Parliament to increase the punishment, had gained 600 signatures. The petition is organized by the “Noor”.

Jenifer Latheef one of the organizers says that while the number of cases had been increasing the punishment for the heinous crime is far too lenient. She also said there are concerns among the public on the lack of legal protection available for the children and current drafts states 15 years as the punishment for the crime, which she says is too lenient. She said that any Maldivian who is above 18 years old can sign the petition.

The petition which began last Tuesday had already gained 600 signatures. The petition is open for the entire Maldives; however, signatures are only being gathered in capital Male at this moment. Petition is being sent to other islands and will also be sent schools, business entities and resorts.

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