Madras High Court Rebukes Tamil Nadu Government Over Police Mishandling of Pocso Case
The Madras High Court delivered a stern reprimand to the Tamil Nadu government on Thursday, condemning its careless attitude in addressing serious allegations against police officials involved in a sensitive Pocso Act case. The court expressed deep concern over the government's failure to take appropriate action against officers accused of violating statutory provisions while handling a distressing sexual assault case in Anna Nagar, Chennai, in 2024.
Violations in Handling of 10-Year-Old Survivor's Case
The case centers on the sexual assault of a 10-year-old girl, with the court highlighting multiple procedural breaches by the police. A division bench comprising Justice P Velmurugan and Justice M Jothiraman pointed to specific violations, including the disclosure of the minor survivor's identity, which compromised her privacy and safety. In a powerful observation, the bench remarked that such actions by the police amounted to 'the fence grazing the crop', implying that those entrusted with protection were instead causing harm.
Court Directs Status Report and Criticizes Government Response
The bench has now directed the state government to submit a detailed status report on departmental actions taken against the implicated police officers. The hearing has been adjourned to Friday to allow for this submission. This interim order was issued in response to a habeas corpus petition filed by the girl's mother, who sought enhanced compensation and strict action against a woman police inspector. The inspector was accused of recording the child's statement without her parents present and allegedly mistreating the family when they visited the police station to file a complaint.
Government's Defense and Court's Rejection
Representing the state, Additional Advocate-General J Ravindran informed the court that compensation of 4 lakh rupees had been paid to the girl as per earlier court directives, with further decisions pending in the trial court. Regarding disciplinary measures, the AAG stated that the officer had been placed under suspension and a criminal case registered for procedural violations. However, the bench firmly rejected this defense, emphasizing that suspension is not a punishment and insisting on concrete departmental action for failing to adhere to Pocso Act provisions.
Broader Implications for Police Accountability
This case underscores ongoing issues with police accountability and child protection protocols in Tamil Nadu. The court's censure highlights the urgent need for stricter enforcement of laws designed to safeguard minors, particularly in sensitive cases under the Pocso Act. The directive for a status report signals the judiciary's commitment to ensuring that government authorities take meaningful steps against officials who violate legal and ethical standards, rather than relying on superficial measures like suspension.
As the hearing resumes, all eyes will be on the Tamil Nadu government's response, with potential implications for future handling of similar cases and broader reforms in police conduct and child welfare initiatives across the state.
