Govt seeks HC nod for POCSO special court

SHILLONG: The State Government recently informed the High Court of Meghalaya on the need to institute a special court to deal with POCSO-related cases in the State.
An official source said the government sought suggestions and clearance from the High Court to have a separate special court to deal exclusively with crime against minors.
Till 2014, rape cases against minors pending with various courts in the State are 142.
Currently, the District and Sessions Judges of East Khasi Hills, West Jaintia Hills, West Garo Hills, Ri Bhoi, West Khasi Hills and East Garo Hills are functioning as Special Judges trying POCSO cases.
The District and Sessions judge of East Khasi Hills also looks after POCSO cases of South West Khasi Hills and the District and Sessions judge of West Garo Hills has jurisdiction of South Garo Hills, North Garo Hills and South West Garo Hills.
However, since they are overburdened, there is delay in the trial, thereby affecting speedy disposal of cases.
Due to the recent spurt in crime against minors, there is fresh demand from several quarters to have dedicated courts to deal with POCSO cases.