Geetha* says she remembers feeling helpless and daunted when she decided to file a complaint after she found out that her husband had sexually abused their daughter. Apart from her daughter and her having to constantly recount what had happened, she said she was left uncomfortable and confused at various points during the investigation — having to explain how she had remained unaware of the abuse, and often wishing that someone would just patiently listen to her.
It will be 10 years this November, since the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act came into force. On May 22, 2012, Parliament passed the legislation. It came into force on November 14 that year. This comprehensive law provides for protection of children from sexual assault, sexual harassment and pornography, while safeguarding the interests of children at every stage of the judicial process through child-friendly mechanisms for reporting, recording of evidence, investigation and speedy trial through special courts.
The number of cases registered under the POCSO Act in Tamil Nadu has seen a steady increase
