Shillong: A preliminary report from the Meghalaya State Commission for Protection of Child Rights has revealed that East Khasi Hills recorded the highest number of POCSO cases in the state last year. The district accounted for 28% of all cases, with a total of 709 instances. In contrast, South Garo Hills had the lowest number, reporting only 64 cases, making up 2% of the total cases.
The commission highlighted that East Khasi Hills also has the highest number of pending POCSO cases, standing at 566, in the POCSO court. Conversely, South East Garo Hills has the fewest pending cases in the state, with only 36.
The data indicates that since the establishment of POCSO courts, a total of 2,566 cases were registered by December 2023. However, a significant backlog remains, with 1,984 cases pending across various districts. The state’s overall disposal rate for cases is reported to be 22.68%.
The report mentions that the first POCSO case in Meghalaya was registered on June 4, 2013, at the East Khasi Hills POCSO court. Subsequently, POCSO courts were established in other districts, with 11 out of 12 districts currently having designated judges. The newly formed Eastern West Khasi Hills is the only district without a POCSO court.
The report also draws attention to an increase in the number of cases during the pandemic years, reaching its peak at 378 cases in 2021. It suggests that various factors may contribute to this rise, necessitating further research.
Concerning case disposal, the report clarifies that it includes not only convictions and acquittals but also factors like the death of the accused, absconders, and frequent case transfers between districts due to new district establishments and POCSO courts.
Ri-Bhoi district leads in the number of convictions, with 50, followed by West Khasi Hills (31) and East Khasi Hills (30). Notably, South Garo Hills has no convictions, partly attributed to the absence of a special public prosecutor for the district.
Social Welfare Minister Paul Lyngdoh expressed concern over districts with a zero conviction rate under the POCSO Act, calling for corrective measures. He emphasized the importance of raising awareness and ensuring the reach of the POCSO Act in the local language.
Talking to the media, Law Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh acknowledged the need for a collective effort to address obstacles hindering women’s rights. She emphasized the importance of breaking down barriers to ensure timely attention and legal aid for victims of abuse.
The release of the Khasi translation of the POCSO Act, titled “Ki Kyndon Aiñ,” was celebrated during the event, marking a historic moment for Meghalaya. The report concluded with the Meghalaya State Commission for Protection of Child Rights unveiling a calendar and a preliminary report on POCSO cases in the state’s courts.
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