2-day orientation programme on POCSO Act begins in Jammu

Jammu, Dec 27: The Jammu & Kashmir Judicial Academy on Saturday commenced a two-day orientation programme on the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, with reference to SAMVAD’s Training Manual on “Essential Interventions and Skills for Working with Child Sexual Abuse – Introducing Mental Health and Legal Dimensions of Forensics” and the National Judicial Academy’s Training Module for Fast Track Special Courts, at the Convention Centre, Canal Road, Jammu.

The orientation programme, as per an official statement, has been organised under the leadership of Justice Arun Palli, Hon’ble The Chief Justice, High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh (Patron-in-Chief, J&K Judicial Academy), and the guidance of the Chairperson and Members of the Governing Committee for the J&K Judicial Academy, Jammu & Kashmir Judicial Academy.

Justice Rajnesh Oswal, Judge, High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh (Chairperson, Governing Committee for J&K Judicial Academy), inaugurated the two-day orientation programme and, in his inaugural address, underscored that children are the most vulnerable participants in the judicial system and must be dealt with utmost empathy and sensitivity.

Addressing judicial officers and other stakeholders, Justice Oswal observed that offences against children leave deep and lasting scars.

“Child trauma is not a static event; it creates ripples that affect the child’s entire future, family, and society at large,” His Lordship remarked.

While stressing the importance of expeditious disposal of POCSO cases, Justice Oswal cautioned that “fast-track injustice is not justice at all”, reiterating that speed must never compromise fairness, due process, or sensitivity towards child victims.

Justice Oswal concluded by calling upon all stakeholders to act as guardians of child rights, ensuring that courts remain safe, reassuring, and child-friendly spaces for children seeking justice.

Justice Rahul Bharti, Judge, High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh (Member, Governing Committee for J&K Judicial Academy), in his special address, underscored the responsibility of courts and allied stakeholders in protecting the dignity and best interests of the child.

He also observed that we live in a society where our children need protection, and that the responsibility cast upon stakeholders reflects their commitment towards this cause.

Referring to landmark judicial pronouncements, he emphasised a child-centric and sensitive approach in dealing with POCSO cases.

The first technical session of Day 1 commenced with an overview of the POCSO Act, 2012, delivered by

Dr Humayun Rasheed Khan, Senior Judicial Officer and Professor, National Judicial Academy, Bhopal, who explained the main objectives of the Act, which aims to protect children from sexual abuse, exploitation, and harassment.