The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012

Abstract

The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, is a comprehensive legislative measure enacted in India to safeguard children from sexual abuse and exploitation. The Act addresses the urgent need for a specialized legal framework to protect minors from various forms of sexual offenses, recognizing that children are particularly vulnerable to such crimes.

The POCSO Act defines a range of sexual offenses against children, including sexual harassment, sexual assault, and penetrative sexual assault. It establishes stringent penalties for offenders, including imprisonment and fines, reflecting the seriousness of these crimes. The Act also incorporates provisions for the protection of child victims, ensuring their privacy and minimizing trauma during legal proceedings. It mandates the establishment of special courts for the expeditious trial of cases and provides for the appointment of special public prosecutors to handle these sensitive cases.