Sodhi's Law of Protection of Children from Sexual Offences in India (POCSO)

Sodhi's Law of Protection of Children from Sexual Offences in India (POCSO) – Edition 2025 is a specialized and comprehensive legal guide on the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012, as amended up to 2025. Designed for legal practitioners, child rights activists, law enforcement officers, educators, and students of law, this book offers an in-depth understanding of the POCSO framework—covering both the procedural and substantive aspects of child protection law in India.

This edition provides updated analysis of statutory provisions, judicial interpretations, and implementation practices. It addresses contemporary legal developments, including landmark judgments, changes in investigative procedures, forensic protocols, and evolving best practices to ensure a child-sensitive justice delivery system.

Key Features:

• Complete Analysis of the POCSO Act: Section-wise commentary covering offences, definitions, special procedures, trial mechanisms, and punishment under the Act.

• Latest Amendments and Judicial Trends: Includes up-to-date Supreme Court and High Court judgments interpreting POCSO provisions, age of consent, aggravated offences, and child witness protection.

• Intersection with IPC and CrPC: Explains the interplay between POCSO and general criminal law, highlighting challenges in charge-framing, evidentiary standards, and sentencing.

• Procedural Safeguards and Child Rights: Details on child-friendly procedures during investigation and trial, including guidelines for recording statements, medical examination, and psychological support.

• Case Studies and Legal Commentary: Real-world case summaries with expert insights that showcase practical challenges and judicial responses in POCSO litigation.

• Role of Stakeholders: Outlines responsibilities of police, special courts, child welfare committees (CWCs), doctors, school authorities, and NGOs in handling cases of child sexual abuse.

• Includes Formats and Checklists: Provides sample FIRs, witness formats, bail applications, and courtroom protocols useful for practicing lawyers and legal aid workers.

• Relevant for Examinations and Policy Work: A go-to manual for students preparing for competitive exams and policymakers involved in child welfare and legal reforms.

Why This Book is Essential:

• Authoritative and Reliable: Recognized as a trusted reference for understanding one of India’s most critical child protection laws.

• Practical and Legal Insight: Offers actionable guidance to professionals involved in criminal justice and child protection systems.

• Supports Access to Justice for Children: Promotes awareness of children's legal rights and equips stakeholders with tools to deliver effective remedies.

• Ideal for Courtroom and Classroom: Equally valuable to lawyers arguing POCSO matters and educators teaching juvenile justice, victimology, or child rights law.

• Aligns with Human Rights Frameworks: Reflects India’s commitment to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and international best practices in child protection.

Sodhi's Law of Protection of Children from Sexual Offences in India (POCSO) – Edition 2025 is a vital legal resource that empowers all stakeholders to understand, interpret, and implement child-centric justice under Indian law. With clarity, legal rigor, and a child-sensitive approach, this book is an indispensable guide to safeguarding the rights and dignity of children across the country.