Calls for Top Priority Action to Expedite Child Sexual Abuse Cases
New Delhi, May 15 — The Supreme Court on Thursday directed the central government to urgently establish dedicated courts under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act to deal exclusively with cases of sexual crimes against children.
A bench comprising Justices Bela M Trivedi and P B Varale observed that the existing number of exclusive POCSO courts was inadequate, leading to violations of the mandated timelines for filing charge sheets and completing trials.
Courts Must Adhere to Legal Timelines, Says Supreme Court
The apex court emphasized that trials under the POCSO Act must be completed within the time frame stipulated in law. It directed both the Union government and state governments to not only create more dedicated courts but also ensure that officials handling investigations are properly sensitised.“It is therefore expected that the Union of India and the state governments shall take appropriate steps to sensitise the officials associated with the investigation of POCSO cases, and also to create dedicated courts to try POCSO cases on top priority basis,” the court stated.
Critical Gaps Identified in Key States
While several states have complied with earlier directions and established exclusive POCSO courts with central funding, the court flagged serious shortfalls in states such as Tamil Nadu, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Odisha, and Maharashtra. Given the high pendency of cases, the court noted the urgent need for additional courts in these regions.The directive follows data submitted by senior advocates V Giri and Uttara Babbar, who were asked to provide state-wise status reports on POCSO court infrastructure.
Mandatory Two Courts in High-Pendency Districts
In a clear directive, the Supreme Court instructed states to establish at least two designated POCSO courts in districts where pending cases exceed 300. It reiterated that the earlier July 2019 directive—requiring one special court per district with over 100 POCSO FIRs—must be implemented strictly, ensuring those courts deal exclusively with POCSO matters.The ongoing proceedings stem from a suo motu petition that highlighted the alarming surge in reported child rape cases across the country.
The Supreme Court's latest ruling underscores the urgent need for systemic judicial reforms to safeguard child victims and ensure swift justice under the POCSO Act.