Justice for Child Victims
In a significant move to bolster the protection of child sexual abuse victims, the Supreme Court has directed all states to respond to the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) regarding the appointment of ‘support persons’ as outlined in the NCPCR’s guidelines. This decisive action underscores the court’s commitment to ensuring the well-being and recovery of children who have suffered such traumatic experiences.
NCPCR Guidelines
The bench, comprising Justices B V Nagarathna and N Kotiswar Singh, granted states four weeks to submit their responses to the NCPCR, detailing their stance on the implementation of the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and guidelines formulated by the Commission. These guidelines, framed in consultation with state governments and Union territories, aim to establish a robust support system for child victims during legal proceedings and beyond.
Crucial Role of Support Persons
A support person plays a pivotal role in assisting child victims navigate the complexities of the legal system and cope with the emotional and psychological aftermath of abuse. They provide vital information, emotional and psychological support, and practical assistance, all of which are indispensable for the child’s healing process.
Catalyst for Change
The court’s order stems from a plea filed by the NGO Bachpan Bachao Andolan, which sought the implementation of child-friendly and child-protection guidelines in the wake of the horrific 2022 Lalitpur incident in Uttar Pradesh, where a 13-year-old child was allegedly gang-raped. The NGO’s petition served as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive measures to safeguard children from sexual abuse and ensure their access to justice.
NCPCR’s Mandate
In response to the NGO’s plea, the Supreme Court, on October 9, 2023, directed the NCPCR to formulate model guidelines for the appointment of support persons under Section 39 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The Commission was tasked with consulting all state governments and Union territories before finalizing the guidelines.
Conclusion
The Supreme Court’s recent order signifies a crucial step towards strengthening the support system for child victims of sexual abuse. By mandating states to respond to the NCPCR guidelines, the court has underscored the importance of providing comprehensive assistance to these vulnerable children. The appointment of support persons is expected to play a transformative role in facilitating their recovery and ensuring their access to justice.
Summary
The Supreme Court has directed states to respond to the NCPCR regarding the appointment of support persons for child sexual abuse victims. This move aims to strengthen the support system for these vulnerable children and ensure their access to justice.
Key Learning Points
| Point | Description |
|---|---|
| Supreme Court Order | The Supreme Court has directed all states to respond to the NCPCR regarding the appointment of ‘support persons’ for child sexual abuse victims. |
| NCPCR Guidelines | The NCPCR has formulated guidelines for the appointment of support persons in consultation with state governments and Union territories. |
| Role of Support Persons | Support persons provide crucial information, emotional and psychological support, and practical assistance to child victims. |
| Catalyst for Change | The court’s order stems from a plea filed by the NGO Bachpan Bachao Andolan seeking the implementation of child-friendly and child-protection guidelines. |
| NCPCR’s Mandate | The Supreme Court directed the NCPCR to formulate model guidelines for the appointment of support persons under the POCSO Act. |
Soumya Smruti Sahoo is a seasoned journalist with extensive experience in both international and Indian news writing. With a sharp analytical mind and a dedication to uncovering the truth, Soumya has built a reputation for delivering in-depth, well-researched articles that provide readers with a clear understanding of complex global and domestic issues. Her work reflects a deep commitment to journalistic integrity, making her a trusted source for accurate and insightful news coverage.
