The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, aims to protect children from sexual abuse and exploitation. Here’s a comprehensive guide:

What is POCSO?

The POCSO Act is a law that protects children (below 18 years) from sexual offenses, including:

  1. Sexual Assault
  2. Sexual Harassment
  3. Child Pornography
  4. Child Trafficking

Key Features of POCSO:

  1. Zero Tolerance Policy
  2. Child-Friendly Procedures
  3. Mandatory Reporting
  4. Strict Penalties

Types of POCSO Cases:

  1. Sexual Assault (Section 3)
  2. Aggravated Sexual Assault (Section 4)
  3. Sexual Harassment (Section 11)
  4. Child Pornography (Section 13)

POCSO Procedure:

  1. Reporting (Section 19)
  2. Investigation (Section 20)
  3. Medical Examination (Section 21)
  4. Trial (Section 22)
  5. Sentencing (Section 23)

POCSO Offenses and Penalties:

  1. Sexual Assault: 3-5 years imprisonment
  2. Aggravated Sexual Assault: 5-7 years imprisonment
  3. Sexual Harassment: 3-5 years imprisonment
  4. Child Pornography: 5-7 years imprisonment

Important POCSO Sections:

  1. Section 32: Mandatory Reporting
  2. Section 33: Protection of Child Victims
  3. Section 39: Child-Friendly Procedures

POCSO Cases Judgment:

  1. Landmark judgments by Supreme Court and High Courts
  2. Recent POCSO cases and their outcomes

Challenges in POCSO Cases:

  1. Delayed Reporting
  2. Lack of Evidence
  3. Trauma to Child Victims
  4. Inadequate Infrastructure

Tips for Handling POCSO Cases:

  1. Sensitivity and Compassion
  2. Child-Friendly Approach