Speed without Justice? An Empirical Analysis of Disposal Conviction Gaps under the POCSO Act in India (2012–2024): Evidence from Andhra Pradesh
Abstract
The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012 was enacted to deliver swift and child-friendly justice in cases of child sexual abuse. In recent years, India has dramatically expanded Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) for POCSO cases, leading to surging case disposal rates. However, this study uncovers a paradox: faster disposal has not translated into higher conviction rates. Using Andhra Pradesh as a case study and drawing on national data from 2012 to 2023, with indicative trends up to mid-2024, this study analyzes patterns in case registrations, disposals, pendency, and trial outcomes under the POCSO Act. Quantitative data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), the National Judicial Data Grid (NJDG), and official government reports are presented in tables and figures. The analysis shows that while the disposal of POCSO cases has increased significantly following the expansion of Fast Track Special Courts approaching parity with new filings in recent years the conviction rate has not shown a corresponding improvement. Nationally, conviction rates declined from approximately 35% in 2019 to around 29% by 2023, indicating a widening gap between case disposal and successful prosecution. Andhra Pradesh reflects these trends, with disposals rising but convictions persistently low (often in single digits). Institutional deficiencies including investigative delays, forensic bottlenecks, high witness attrition, and inadequate victim support underlie the disposal conviction gap. The paper discusses the continuity in procedural law under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, noting that POCSO special courts and processes remain in place post-IPC transition. It concludes with policy recommendations for balancing speed with substantive justice: bolstering investigations, victim support (e.g. para-legal volunteers and support persons), and judicial capacity to ensure that expedited trials do not compromise trial quality or child welfare. The findings carry implications for legal reform and public policy, urging a shift from purely quantitative “justice efficiency” metrics towards qualitative outcomes that truly protect child victims.
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