Supreme Court Expresses Concern Over Misuse Of POCSO Act; Emphasises Need For Awareness

The SC has expressed deep concern over the growing misuse of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act in India.

The court observed that the law was originally meant to protect minors from sexual abuse. It noted that the Act is now being increasingly misused.

The judges pointed out that many cases involve consensual relationships and marital disputes among teenagers.

A bench of Justice BV Nagarathna and Justice R Mahadevan made these observations during the hearing. They emphasised the urgent need to raise awareness about the Act’s legal provisions.

The judges emphasised that a deeper understanding of the law could help prevent its misuse.

The bench highlighted that many people misunderstand or deliberately misuse the POCSO Act. They warned that such misuse could harm both the spirit of the law and the lives of young people.

It was hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by senior advocate Abad Harshad Ponda.

The PIL sought measures to create awareness about rape laws and the POCSO Act to make India a safer place for girls and women.

The Supreme Court has granted time to the Centre and the states to file their responses and scheduled the next hearing for December 2.

In an earlier hearing, the Court issued notices to multiple government bodies. It directed the Centre and the Ministry of Education to respond.

The Court also sent notices to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the CBFC.

The court issued notices directing these bodies to present their views on the POCSO Act. It asked them to suggest effective ways to promote awareness about related laws.

Ponda’s petition urged the Education Ministry to introduce a new curriculum for young students. It proposed including lessons for children up to the age of 14.

The suggested curriculum would focus on women’s and children’s rights, gender equality, and moral values.

The petition further argued that schools must take the lead in shaping boys’ attitudes toward women and equality from an early age.

The PIL also urged the Education Ministry to ensure that students receive basic knowledge about laws related to crimes against women and children.

It called for integrating moral and civic education into school syllabi to promote respect, empathy, and awareness about gender-based violence.

The petition also urged the Information and Broadcasting Ministry and the CBFC to take active steps to raise awareness. It asked them to use films and media platforms to educate people about the consequences and punishments for crimes like rape.

The petitioner affirmed these efforts would help build a more informed and responsible society.

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