SC EMPHASISES POCSO ACT'S IMPORTANCE AMID CONCERNS OVER MINOR ABUSE

Why in the news?

Supreme Court emphasizes POCSO Act’s importance due to concerns over acquitted man’s alleged rape of minor and subsequent acquittal.

source:slideshare

About the Judicial Concerns:

The Supreme Court reaffirmed the significance of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
Justices expressed apprehension over individuals marrying minor victims to evade conviction, highlighting the Act’s objective.
The court addressed a case involving the abduction and rape of a 14-year-old girl in West Bengal.
Despite the mother filing an FIR, the girl is currently residing with both her child and the accused, who was previously convicted under the POCSO Act.

About the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act:

● Enacted on November 14, 2012, post India’s ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1992.

● Aims to combat sexual exploitation and abuse of children.

● Defines a child as below 18 years, providing punishment as per offence severity.

● Amended in 2019 for stricter penalties, including the death penalty for child sexual crimes.

● Government notified POCSO Rules, 2020, for effective implementation.

Features:

● Gender-neutral: Defines a child as any person below 18 years.

● Protects from sexual assault, harassment, and pornography.

● Establishes Special Courts for trial.

● Amended in 2019 to enhance punishments, ensuring safety for children.

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