Delhi High Court Directs Trial Courts to Avoid Repeated Summoning of POCSO Victims

The Delhi High Court observed that repeatedly summoning child sexual assault victims during trial or bail proceedings causes significant psychological distress and re-traumatisation.

The Court emphasized that the POCSO Act mandates child-friendly procedures to protect minors from unnecessary appearances. Holding that once a victim's views on bail are recorded, their continued presence should be avoided in every hearing.

The Court suggested using video conferencing to record testimonies to minimize physical court visits.

This ruling came while addressing a petition by three minors who were summoned multiple times, with one even facing a bailable warrant for non-appearance due to emotional distress.

[Minor Child K & Ors. v. NCT of Delhi & Ors.]