ABSTRACT
The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, is a landmark statute in India aimed at safeguarding children from sexual exploitation and abuse. Emphasizing a victim-centric approach, the Act mandates child-sensitive judicial procedures. This study draws on data collected from eight Special POCSO Courts and 61 police stations across selected districts in Odisha, using face-to-face interviews with stakeholders. Preliminary findings suggest that while Odisha’s Special Courts have made progress in adopting child-sensitive practices, significant gaps persist – particularly in infrastructure, resource availability, and procedural clarity. One of the major obstacles to effective implementation is the ambiguity surrounding what constitutes a ‘child-friendly’ environment under the Act, coupled with the absence of uniform structural standards. In contrast, countries like the United Kingdom, Sweden, and Canada handle child sexual abuse cases in regular courts supplemented by dedicated victim support personnel who guide victims and their families through the justice system. These models demonstrate greater consistency in case progression and disposal. The chapter argues for systemic reforms in India, including infrastructure upgrades, standardized child-friendly procedures, and the institutionalization of victim support services through comprehensive training and policy enforcement to better realize the objectives of the POCSO Act.
