The Allahabad High Court has highlighted the urgent need for a robust legal aid system to support child victims of sexual abuse under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. Justice Ajay Bhanot underscored that these vulnerable individuals face numerous challenges, including mental trauma, social marginalization, and limited resources, which impede their access to justice.
This statement was made while the court denied bail to Rajendra Prasad, a father accused of trafficking his 14-year-old daughter. Prasad has been in custody since November 4, 2022, with the case filed at the Chaubepur Police Station in Varanasi.
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Justice Bhanot emphasized the necessity of statutory support systems, such as legal aid, medical care, and counseling, to empower child victims to navigate the legal process effectively. “In the absence of support systems guaranteed by law, child victims of sexual offences under the POCSO Act cannot pursue their cases effectively,” he stated.
The judge noted that empowering these victims is essential to overcoming barriers to justice and fulfilling the legislative intent of the POCSO Act.
During the proceedings, the court observed that the authorities had not informed the victim of her rights to a support person or legal counsel. Consequently, the court outlined the responsibilities of various authorities, including the police, child welfare committees, and the District Legal Services Authority, to ensure that victims receive the entitlements they deserve.
The High Court directed officials to send a copy of its order to the Director General of Police, the Additional Director General of Prosecution, and the Women and Child Development Department in Lucknow to ensure compliance and enhance support for child victims of sexual abuse.
