Srinagar, Oct 24, KNT: The conviction rate under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act has shown a steady improvement across Kashmir Division over the past three years, reflecting a gradual but positive shift in the justice system’s response to crimes against minors.
As per official data and legal tracking reports reviewed by the news agency Kashmir News Trust, conviction rates under the POCSO Act have improved from around 13 percent in 2021 to approximately 33 percent by September 2024. Officials attribute this rise to better coordination between the police, prosecution, and judiciary, along with the introduction of faster trial mechanisms.
From 2019 to 2021, pandemic-related disruptions had slowed proceedings, resulting in low conviction outcomes. However, 2022 witnessed a rise to 21 percent, supported by improved case monitoring and victim protection measures. By 2023, the rate climbed further to 28 percent, with districts like Srinagar, Baramulla, and Anantnag reporting notable progress in the disposal of pending cases.
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Officials said that dedicated POCSO courts, police sensitization programs, and digital case tracking systems have played a key role in expediting trials and strengthening evidence-based convictions. “We are witnessing better coordination between investigators and prosecutors, ensuring that cases are legally sound and trial-ready,” said a senior public prosecutor.
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Despite the encouraging trend, authorities acknowledge that challenges such as delayed forensic reports, witness hesitancy, and social stigma still affect conviction outcomes.
Legal experts view the recent convictions as a strong indication of institutional accountability and improved procedural discipline. They believe that continued focus on victim support and time-bound trial completion will further enhance the credibility of the justice system. [KNT]
