The Abhayam Masoom Summit 2025 was held in Hyderabad on Saturday, raising awareness against child sexual abuse. Organized by Young Indians (Yi), part of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), the summit brought together young professionals from over 70 cities worldwide. It was a collaborative initiative by Bharat Rising, Young Indians, and CII, emphasizing the collective responsibility to safeguard children in both online and offline spaces.
Sai Durga Tej, the Supreme Hero, addressed the summit on the topic: “Every Child Matters in a Digital World: The Collective Responsibility to Keep Children Safe Online and Offline.” Prominent guests at the event included Minister Seethakka, Yi Co-Chairman Bhavin Pandya, National Chairman Tarang Khurana, CII Telangana Chairman Siva Prasad Reddy, and Jyotsna Singh.
Speaking passionately about child protection, Sai Durga Tej said, “We need to take responsibility for protecting our children. Today, children are being abused on social media. People make inappropriate comments, laugh, or like such content. It deeply pains me. Is this the kind of society we want? How can anyone say such disgusting things about children?”
He added, “I waited to see if anyone would speak up or if the media would respond, but no one did. So I decided to take action myself. People hide behind the label of ‘dark comedy’ to make senseless, inappropriate remarks. Freedom of speech is important, but it should never come at the cost of harming others.”
Sai Durga Tej also shared his personal experiences in supporting children. “Back in 2015, I worked with Think Peace to promote child education in Araku, helping build a school. I’ve also adopted children in Telangana, taking care of their education and basic needs. Nowadays, parents spend less time with their children, busy with their own lives. Children need quality time with their parents.”
Reflecting on his own childhood, he said, “My mother was my whole world. I could talk to her about anything. Parents must foster such open relationships, allowing children to share freely. We must teach them patiently about good touch and bad touch, both at home and at school.”
He emphasized responsible use of social media, stating, “Families should sit together at least once a week to connect. Parents must monitor their children’s social media activities. Linking accounts to parents’ numbers or Aadhaar cards can create accountability. Children must be protected from harmful content, as they are impressionable and easily influenced.”
On a personal note, Sai Durga Tej shared, “After my movie Winner, I chose to avoid songs that promote teasing. If we truly love someone, we should appreciate them, not tease them. Parents should encourage children to live in the real world, not just online. Social media comments, whether positive or negative, can deeply affect children.”
He concluded with a light-hearted note about his personal life, saying, “Regarding my marriage, please don’t spread rumors. When the time is right, I will announce it myself.”
