Ensuring the safety and well-being of minor rape victims is a paramount concern for society. Beyond the immediate trauma of the assault, these young survivors face complex challenges that demand urgent attention.
Firstly, there’s a critical need for swift and sensitive legal proceedings that prioritize the victim’s rights and ensure justice is served. Specialized courts and trained professionals can play a crucial role in facilitating this process.
Secondly, comprehensive support services are essential to address the physical, emotional, and psychological needs of minor victims. This includes access to medical care, counseling, and rehabilitation programs tailored to their age and circumstances.
Furthermore, efforts to prevent such heinous crimes must be intensified through education, awareness campaigns, and community engagement. By fostering a culture of respect, consent, and zero tolerance for violence, we can create safer environments for all children.
In conclusion, safeguarding minor rape victims requires a multi-faceted approach that encompasses legal, social, and educational interventions. By working together, we can ensure that these vulnerable individuals receive the protection, care, and support they deserve.
The Ministry of Women and Child Development, on November 30, 2023, released the “Scheme for Care and Support to Victims under Section 4 & 6 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012”.
Understanding POCSO Act
The POCSO Act, enacted in 2012 under the auspices of the Union Ministry of Women and Child Development, is a legislative measure aimed at safeguarding children from sexual assault, harassment, and pornography. It introduced provisions for establishing Special Courts dedicated to trying offenses against children. An amendment in 2019 escalated penalties for specific crimes to deter abusers and ensure children’s right to a dignified upbringing.
Objective of the Scheme
The primary objective of the newly issued notification is to offer comprehensive support and assistance to minor pregnant girl child victims, integrating services “under one roof”. The scheme aims to facilitate immediate access to both emergency and non-emergency services to aid in the victims’ long-term recovery process.
Challenges Identified
Initially, the scheme targeted only abandoned or orphaned pregnant girls but has since expanded its scope to include all pregnant girl victims under the specified sections of the POCSO Act. However, the lack of redrafting to align with this broader inclusiveness has led to confusion. Notably, victims under Sections 4 and 6 of the POCSO Act could be of any gender, necessitating clarity in the scheme’s provisions. The age group of these victims, primarily between 13-18 years, underscores the urgent need for proactive sexual and reproductive health (SRH) information and services. Moreover, while pregnancies among girls may stem from exploitative sexual activity, the scheme’s silence on continued benefits post-abortion or miscarriage raises significant concerns.
Issues with Implementation
The notification’s reference to Section 27 of the POCSO Act, inaccurately depicting medical examination procedures, requires rectification. Furthermore, it implies unchecked authority for the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) regarding sexual assault medical examinations of minors below 12 years. These discrepancies call for alignment with existing legislations and protocols. Additionally, the scheme’s insistence on categorizing all pregnant girls as Children in Need of Care and Protection (CNCP) contradicts established rules, leading to unnecessary procedural obstacles.
Constitutional Implications
Related constitutional provisions, such as Article 21 (right to dignity, personal liberty, and privacy), Article 14 (right to equality), and Article 15 (right against discrimination), underscore the necessity of robust protective measures for children. Articles 23 & 24 emphasize protection against exploitation, while Article 21A guarantees free and compulsory education for children aged 6-14 years. Furthermore, Article 39(f) mandates the State to ensure opportunities for children’s healthy development, safeguarding them against exploitation and abandonment.
The Way Forward
Addressing these challenges requires the government to intensify efforts in establishing robust safeguarding systems for children and adolescents. Promoting sexual and reproductive health (SRH) education and abuse prevention across communities is paramount. Given India’s concerning prevalence of child marriages and teenage pregnancies, a comprehensive analysis of health and police data is essential to inform planning and budgeting for the scheme. Rectifying the notification in alignment with existing laws and regulations is crucial, supported by substantive data to fortify its efficacy.
By adhering to constitutional mandates and integrating with prevailing legislations, the Ministry of Women and Child Development can ensure the scheme’s effectiveness in protecting vulnerable children and adolescents.
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