Supreme Court Calls for POCSO Act Amendment to Address Child Exploitation

The Supreme Court has urged Parliament to amend the POCSO Act by replacing 'child pornography' with 'child sexual exploitative and abuse material'. The bench suggested implementing comprehensive sex education and establishing an expert committee to develop child protection programs. The court also set aside a Madras High Court ruling that downloading child pornography was not an offense.

The Supreme Court on Monday recommended that Parliament should amend the POCSO Act to replace the term 'child pornography' with 'child sexual exploitative and abuse material' (CSEAM), reflecting the true nature of these offenses more accurately.

A bench led by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud suggested the Centre might consider bringing about the amendment via an Ordinance. The court emphasized in its 200-page verdict that watching and downloading child pornography are indeed offenses under the POCSO and IT Acts.

The court's suggestions included implementing comprehensive sex education programs to deter potential offenders and raising awareness through public campaigns. It also suggested forming an expert committee to develop robust programs for child protection, education, and sexual well-being.

(With inputs from agencies.)