Jagran correspondent, Muzaffarpur. To ensure speedy justice in cases of sexual offenses against children (POCSO Act) in Bihar, the Law Department has adopted a policy of zero tolerance. After the recent review meeting, the department has set strict deadlines for the police and prosecution. Strict instructions were given in the meeting that if in any case the charge sheet is not filed by the investigator (IO) within 60 days, then the same will be immediately reported to the Additional Director General of Police (ADG), Criminal Investigation Department.
Apart from this, instructions have also been given to send the list of cases pending due to FSL report to CID so that justice is not stopped due to lack of scientific evidence. Under the provisions of the POCSO Act, efforts will now be made to ensure execution of promises within one year from the date of cognizance. All Special Public Prosecutors (SPPs) have been given a target to take at least 10 cases to final verdict every month. Also, special written requests will be made to the courts to expedite the cases which are in the final stages of deposition or arguments.
Action will be taken against absent prosecutors
A strict stance has also been adopted regarding discipline in the meeting. Special public prosecutors from a total of 21 districts, including Aurangabad, Begusarai, Gaya, Saran and East Champaran, were found absent from the review meeting. The department has ordered to seek clarification from the prosecutors of all these districts.
sensitive environment for victims
The department has specifically directed that during the court proceedings, statements should be recorded with the victims in a very cordial environment and only after winning their trust, so that they do not have to face any kind of mental pressure. Along with this, the execution of 54 promises by Patna was also appreciated.
Policemen and doctors missing from testimony on radar
In the review meeting, it was found that despite repeated calls, the investigators (IOs) and doctors were not reaching the court to testify. Due to which there is delay in disposal of cases. Instructions were given that if any research officer does not appear for testimony even after receiving summons twice, then a written complaint should be made directly to the SSP of the concerned district.
This strictness will apply not only to the present officers but also to those retired investigators who are not coming to the court even after the information. A list of serious cases like murder and rape will be made and the court will be requested to conduct their trial on priority. These matters will have to be updated daily.
The department praised public prosecutors for securing convictions in contested cases, but also targeted increasing the conviction rate. The cases in which the accused are acquitted will be reviewed in detail and after preparing solid grounds, an appeal will be made in the higher court.
It has been made mandatory for all Special Public Prosecutors to send their data to the Directorate through e-mail in the first week of every month. Instructed that the speedy execution of the cases which are in their final stage (statement, debate or judgment) should be ensured so that the victims can get timely justice.