Supreme Court Direct Centre to Setup More POCSO Courts to Curb Delays in Child Rape Trials

The Supreme Court has urged the Centre and States to urgently establish more exclusive POCSO courts to address the growing pendency of child sexual assault cases, particularly in Tamil Nadu, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Odisha, and Maharashtra.

Delays are undermining the Act’s strict timelines. The Court also emphasised the need for trained support staff, child-friendly infrastructure, and timely filing of charge sheets.

The Court highlighted gaps in forensic labs, legal aid, and victim compensation.

While noting partial compliance with its 2019 directions, it closed the suo motu case with strong advisories to ensure speedier and more sensitive handling of such cases.