MP High Court Imposes Cost on State for Casual Appeal in POCSO Case

The Madhya Pradesh High Court criticized the State for filing a mechanical and careless appeal in a POCSO case where legal grounds were absent. The Court observed that such casual appeals burden the judicial system and jeopardize the purpose of the POCSO Act, which demands sensitivity, precision, and seriousness. It imposed costs on the State, emphasizing that government litigation must meet responsible standards and cannot be filed merely for the sake of “appearing diligent.” The Court reiterated that sexual-offence jurisprudence involving minors requires careful scrutiny and prosecutorial discipline. This ruling may influence State litigation departments to strengthen vetting mechanisms before filing appeals and underscores the need for accountability in government-driven criminal litigation.