Rajya Sabha Discusses POCSO and AI Regulation Bills

Why in the news?

The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Amendment) Bill 2024 was introduced in the Rajya Sabha, highlighting rising juvenile offences, alongside discussions on bills to regulate emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence and Deepfakes.

Rajya Sabha Discusses POCSO and AI Regulation Bills

Introduction of POCSO (Amendment) Bill 2024:

  • The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Amendment) Bill 2024 was introduced in the Rajya Sabha as a private member bill.
  • The bill was moved by NCP MP Dr. Fauzia Khan, seeking amendments to the existing POCSO Act, 2012.
  • Khan highlighted critical concerns such as drug abuse, digital exploitation, and the rise in juvenile offences affecting children.

Key Statistics and Concerns

  • According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), POCSO cases have surged by 47% over six years since 2017.
  • The rise underscores the need for stronger measures to protect children from sexual and digital threats.
  • Khan stressed the importance of updating legal frameworks to tackle evolving challenges faced by children.

Other Legislative Developments:

  • Members of Parliament also introduced bills addressing the regulation of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Deepfakes.
  • The proposed bills aim to establish ethical guidelines and regulatory frameworks to safeguard citizens against technological misuse.
  • These discussions reflect growing awareness of the intersection between technological advancements and legal protections.
  • The introduction of both bills underscores the government’s attention to child protection and technology governance, emphasizing the need for adaptive and responsive legislation.