When discussing laws related to child protection in India, the term POSCO often comes up. However, the correct term is POCSO, not POSCO.
Correct Full Form: POCSO
| Term | Full Form |
| POCSO | Protection of Children from Sexual Offences |
What is the POCSO Act?
The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012 is an Indian law formulated to protect children (individuals below 18 years of age) from sexual abuse, sexual harassment, and pornography.
The Act was introduced to provide a child-friendly legal framework for dealing with cases of sexual offences against minors.
Key Objectives of the POCSO Act
| Objective | Description |
| ✅ Protection | Safeguards children from various forms of sexual abuse. |
| ✅ Speedy Trial | Mandates special courts to conduct child abuse cases quickly and sensitively. |
| ✅ Child-Friendly Procedures | Ensures that the legal process is not intimidating or traumatic for the child. |
| ✅ Mandatory Reporting | Makes it legally obligatory to report suspected sexual offences. |
| ✅ Confidentiality | Prohibits the disclosure of the identity of the child victim to protect their dignity and privacy. |
Major Offences Covered Under POCSO
The Act classifies child sexual offences into various categories:
| Type of Offence | Description |
| Penetrative Sexual Assault | Includes all types of sexual intercourse with a minor. |
| Sexual Assault | Touching private parts with sexual intent without penetration. |
| Sexual Harassment | Includes gestures, comments, stalking, or showing pornography to a child. |
| Use of Child for Pornography | Involves using a child for making or distributing sexually explicit content. |
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