Thiruvananthapuram: Despite recommendations from police chiefs, the establishment of a dedicated police wing to investigate POCSO cases in the state remains stagnant within the home department. The proposal for this specialized unit emerged amid the call for expediting investigations into POCSO cases, yet financial constraints have hindered its realization.
Former police chief Lokanath Behera advocated for a special investigation unit under the Inspector General’s purview in 2019, highlighting the need for 478 officers. However, the Home Department expressed hesitation, citing difficulties in creating new positions. Following Lokanath Behera’s retirement, Anil Kant assumed the role of police chief. The Home Department instructed the recommendation be revised, resulting in a reduced recommendation of 341 posts. Notably, this adjustment also brings an additional financial burden of approximately Rs 22 crore annually for the creation of new positions.
The state witnesses over 3000 POCSO cases annually, with approximately 10,000 cases currently undergoing trial across various courts. The lack of a dedicated investigative unit prolongs the ordeal for victims and undermines efforts to deliver timely justice in these sensitive cases.
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