Similar measures have already been implemented in Goa, Delhi, Telengana, and Karnataka.
The POCSO Act recommends that Special Courts be established in every district in a state to handle offenses coming within the purview of the Act.
Such courts are expected to be equipped with video conferencing facilities and one-way mirrors to protect the identity of the children.
The Act also recommends allowing the presence of a parent or a person held in trust or confidence by the children and providing for translators, interpreters, special educators, NGOs etc. as required.
Special Prosecutors with minimum seven years of experience are required to be appointed to handle such cases.
Further, the Act lays down provisions to preserve the dignity of the child. The child is not to be subjected to aggressive examination or character assassination. The court may allow frequent breaks during trial if necessary. Moreover, the child should not be called on repeatedly to testify in the court.
The ultimate aim is to create a non-threatening environment conducive to enabling children to testify freely and under minimal pressure.
Source: Barandbench
