Why did the Madras High Court criticize the Tamil Nadu government?

The Madras High Court criticized the Tamil Nadu government for its careless attitude in acting against police officials who allegedly violated the Pocso Act while handling a sexual assault case involving a 10-year-old girl.

What Pocso Act violations did the police allegedly commit?

The police allegedly committed violations including the disclosure of the 10-year-old survivor's identity and recording her statement in the absence of her parents.

What action did the court demand from the Tamil Nadu government?

The court demanded a status report on the departmental action taken against the police officials involved in the Pocso Act violations.

Home / Crime and Justice / Court Slams TN Govt Over Pocso Act Violations

Court Slams TN Govt Over Pocso Act Violations

29 Jan

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Summary

Madras High Court criticizes Tamil Nadu govt's laxity.
Police violated Pocso Act, including girl's identity disclosure.
Court demands status report on departmental action against officers.

Court Slams TN Govt Over Pocso Act Violations

The Madras High Court has censured the Tamil Nadu government for its negligent approach to police officials accused of violating the Pocso Act. The violations occurred while handling an Anna Nagar sexual assault case involving a 10-year-old girl in 2024. A division bench noted that the police disclosed the survivor's identity, comparing it to 'the fence grazing the crop'.

The court's strong observation came during the hearing of a habeas corpus plea filed by the survivor's mother. The plea sought enhanced compensation and action against a woman police inspector for recording the girl's statement without parents present and allegedly assaulting them.

The state informed the court that ₹4 lakh compensation was paid and the accused officer was suspended, with a criminal case registered. However, the bench emphasized that departmental action, beyond suspension, is necessary for officials failing to adhere to Pocso Act provisions.