The Barriers to Effective Enforcement of the POCSO Act: An Indian Perspective

This study explores the barriers to the effective enforcement of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, in India. Despite its landmark provisions for child protection, the implementation of the Act faces numerous challenges, including institutional shortcomings, procedural delays, and lack of awareness among key stakeholders. The study utilizes document analysis to examine legal texts, government reports, and academic literature, highlighting key obstacles such as judicial insensitivity, inadequate training for law enforcement, and the lack of victim protection measures. The findings reveal that while the Act has contributed to raising awareness and increasing reported cases, its enforcement remains impeded by systemic inefficiencies and societal factors. The study recommends a multi-faceted approach to enhance the Act’s implementation, including specialized training for judicial and law enforcement officers, strengthening victim protection mechanisms, and fostering community-level awareness.

Keywords: POCSO Act, Child Sexual Abuse, Institutional Barriers, Procedural Barriers, Victim Protection, Actionable Strategies, Child Protection Laws.

POCSO Act Child Sexual Abuse Institutional Barriers Procedural Barriers Victim Protection Actionable Strategies Child Protection Laws.