Bhutan recorded at least 330 cases of teenage pregnancy in 2020. Of them, only 18 cases were reported to the police. Closure of schools and lockdowns, coupled with the lack of awareness, was the main cause of increased incidents of teenage pregnancy. 

Last year, police found 12 cases of teenage pregnancy involving minor girls, reported Kuensel. In most cases, perpetrators were known to the minors, mostly either stepfathers, brothers, uncles, or neighbors, the report cited a police officer who analyzed these cases. 

Most victims were living with dependents and come from lower-income group families, said the police officer. “In some cases, perpetrators were also dependents.”

Police come to know about such only when schools and hospitals report the matter to them. “But in some cases, it is not reported even if the victim is a minor,” an official said. He also added most children lacked serious parenting. 

The lack of access to contraceptive pills also contributed to numbers last year. Also, among these groups, children lack awareness about contraceptives. 

“The education ministry and health ministry should come together. There is a serious need for intervention,” a concerned Bhutanese mother was quoted as saying by Kuensel.

(SAM)