SC Issues Directions for Speedy Disposal of Child Rape Cases u/POCSO Act

May 02, 2018

It has been reported that Supreme Court yesterday issued a slew of directions for trying of cases under the POCSO Act, 2012 (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences).

The petitioner in the case reportedly has urged the Apex Court that it is ensured that trial in cases involving rape of child below 12 years is completed within 6 months from the date when the FIR is lodged. The Apex Court in the case has taken a strong note of the situation and highlighted the number cases pending under the POCSO Act in various States particularly Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.

In view of the aforesaid, the Supreme Court Bench has now issued the following directions for speedy investigation and trial of cases registered under the POCSO Act:

High Courts have been directed to assure that cases under the POCSO Act are investigated and disposed off in accordance with the provisions of the Act;

Special Courts constituted under the POCSO Act shall be entrusted with the duty to deal with such cases;

Instructions to be given to the Special Courts to dispose of the cases speedily by avoiding unnecessary adjournments;

High Court to constitute a Committee for observing the disposal of trials under the POCSO Act;

Special Task Force shall be constituted to assist is investigation of such cases;

To provide child friendly Courts as contemplated under the Act;