What is POCSO?

POCSO is designed to protect all children under the age of 18 from various forms of sexual offenses.

The primary objectives of POCSO are to prevent sexual offenses against children, provide for the protection of children from sexual abuse, and ensure justice and rehabilitation for victims.

POCSO defines sexual harassment as any unwelcome sexually determined behavior, whether directly or indirectly, including physical contact and advances, making sexually colored remarks, or showing pornography.

Any person who has knowledge of a child being sexually abused or exploited can file a complaint under POCSO. This includes the child, their parents or guardians, or any concerned citizen.

POCSO covers all individuals under the age of 18, providing protection to minors from sexual offenses.

The penalties for violating POCSO include imprisonment, fine, and in severe cases, both. The severity of the punishment depends on the nature and gravity of the offense.

POCSO defines sexual assault as any act of making sexual advances, showing pornography, or committing any other sexual act with a child.

Police are responsible for promptly registering complaints, conducting investigations, and ensuring the protection of victims and witnesses.

No, POCSO primarily focuses on protecting children from sexual offenses and does not hold children liable for such acts.

POCSO violations can be reported to the police or through specialized child protection agencies. In emergencies, one can also call child helplines.

Yes, POCSO mandates the protection of the victim’s identity and privacy throughout the legal process to prevent further trauma.

POCSO ensures access to medical assistance, counseling, legal aid, and rehabilitation services for victims.

No, POCSO cases cannot be settled outside of court. They must be adjudicated through legal proceedings.

Yes, special courts are designated exclusively for POCSO cases to ensure swift justice and sensitivity towards child victims.

Child pornography under POCSO includes any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a child.

POCSO provides for the protection of witnesses, including children, through various measures such as keeping their identities confidential and providing security if necessary.

Yes, POCSO cases can be reopened if new evidence comes to light, enabling a reevaluation of the case.

Medical examinations are conducted to gather evidence of sexual abuse, assess the victim’s condition, and provide necessary medical care.

Yes, POCSO mandates rehabilitation services for victims, including counseling, education, vocational training, and other forms of support to help them recover from the trauma.

POCSO has provisions to prevent false accusations, and individuals making false complaints can face legal consequences.

Yes, a person can be charged under both POCSO and the Indian Penal Code (IPC) if the offense violates the provisions of both laws.

The duration of POCSO cases varies depending on factors such as the complexity of the case, the efficiency of the legal system, and the availability of evidence. However, efforts are made to expedite proceedings to ensure timely justice.

No, POCSO cases cannot be settled through mediation as they involve serious offenses against children and require judicial intervention.

Key amendments to POCSO have been made to strengthen child protection measures, enhance penalties for offenders, and streamline legal procedures to ensure better implementation of the law.