5 Mandatory steps to Implement POCSO
POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) is a law in India that aims to protect children from sexual abuse and exploitation. To implement POCSO in schools, here are the steps that can be followed:
- Develop a POCSO policy: The school should develop a policy that outlines the school's commitment to preventing and addressing sexual offenses against children. The policy should define what constitutes sexual offenses, the reporting procedure, and the disciplinary action that will be taken against offenders.
- Conduct awareness sessions: The school should conduct awareness sessions for students, teachers, parents and non-teaching staffs to educate them about POCSO, its provisions, and the actions that can be taken to prevent and report sexual offenses.
- Appoint a POCSO committee: The school should appoint a POCSO committee comprising of teachers, staff members, and a representative from a non-governmental organization (NGO) working in the field of child rights. The committee should be responsible for receiving complaints, conducting investigations, and taking appropriate action against offenders.
- Implement safety measures: The school should implement safety measures such as CCTV cameras, access control systems, and regular patrolling to prevent sexual offenses and identify offenders.
- Appoint a Child Counsellor: Child counsellor must be appointed in every school. Students must be given access to counselors. Implementing POCSO in schools requires a collaborative effort from all stakeholders, including teachers, staff, students, parents, and NGOs. It is crucial to create a safe and supportive environment for children where they can report sexual offenses without fear of retaliation or stigma.
Originally published April 25, 2023