- (1.) We have gone through the report of Shri Surinder S. Rathi, Registrar of the Supreme Court. In paragraphs 7.1 to 7.9 of the said Report, the relevant figures are mentioned, which are being extracted below:- "7.1 Percentage share of different types of offences under POCSO (National Analysis): JUDGEMENT_153_LAWS(SC)11_2019_1.html 7.2 Gender-wise percentage of victimisation under POCSO FIRs: JUDGEMENT_153_LAWS(SC)11_2019_2.html 7.3 Age profile of Victims under POCSO: JUDGEMENT_153_LAWS(SC)11_2019_3.html 7.4 Whether accused is Known/Stranger or Relative of victim: JUDGEMENT_153_LAWS(SC)11_2019_4.html 7.5 Time taken in completion of investigation: JUDGEMENT_153_LAWS(SC)11_2019_5.html 7.6 Time taken by Police in depositing Samples with FSL Laboratory: JUDGEMENT_153_LAWS(SC)11_2019_6.html 7.7 Percentage of cases in which support person is provided: JUDGEMENT_153_LAWS(SC)11_2019_7.html 7.8 Percentage of cases in which interim compensation/final compensation provided: JUDGEMENT_153_LAWS(SC)11_2019_8.html 7.9 Pendency of POCSO Cases in percentage (Sec. 35(2) mandates trial to be completed within one year): JUDGEMENT_153_LAWS(SC)11_2019_9.html
(2.) This report shows a shocking state of affairs. What to talk of trials, in 20% of the cases even investigation is not completed within one year. Virtually, no support persons are provided and no compensation is paid to the victims. Almost two-third of the cases are pending trial for more than one year.
(3.) It appears that at all stages of dealing with POCSO cases commencing with the investigation up to the stage of trial, the time lines stipulated under the Act have not been complied with. From the report of Shri Rathi, it appears that one major reason for the inability of the stake holders to meet the deadline stipulated under the Act, is lack of awareness and lack of dedication in completing investigation, etc. within the time frame stipulated and also inadequacy of the number of courts which has resulted in cases remaining pending beyond the period mandated for completion of trial under the Act.;