Context:
Supreme Court directs Centre to set up Special POCSO Courts on priority, to exclusively deal with cases of sexual offenses against children.
POCSO Court:
- Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act mandates the establishment of Special POCSO Courts for speedy trials of cases related to child sexual offenses.
- Exclusive Jurisdiction: These courts deal only with cases under the POCSO Act to ensure focused and efficient handling.
- Child-Friendly Procedures: Courts are designed to be sensitive to the needs of child victims, ensuring a non-intimidating environment.
- Time-Bound Trial: Child’s evidence must be recorded within 30 days of the court taking cognizance.
- The trial should ideally be completed within 1 year.
- Support Mechanisms: Special Public Prosecutors are appointed to handle cases.
- Child Welfare Committees (CWCs) assist in rehabilitation and support.
- The Supreme Court has directed the Centre to set up Special POCSO Courts in districts where over 100 cases are pending.
- These courts will be funded by the Central Government and will include –
- Presiding Officers
- Support Persons’
- Special Public Prosecutors
- Child-Friendly Infrastructure
Source: TH
Previous Year Question
Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act, 2017?
1. Pregnant women are entitled for three months predelivery and three months post-delivery paid leave
2. Enterprises with creches must allow the mother minimum six creche visits daily
3. Women with two children get reduced entitlements.
Select the correct answer using the code given below
[UPSC Civil Service Exam – 2019 Prelims]
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1,2 and 3
Answer: (c)
Explanation:
Statement 1 is incorrect. The act provides for 26 weeks of paid maternity leave for women employees, unless they have two or more surviving children.
Statement 2 is incorrect. Enterprises with creches must allow the mother minimum 4 creche visits daily.