Trial Courts Must Act Against False POCSO Cases: Madras High Court

The Madras High Court warned against the rising misuse of the POCSO Act and directed trial courts to take strict action against adults filing false or malicious accusations. The Court noted that fabricated cases not only harm innocent persons but also dilute the Act’s core purpose of protecting children. It emphasised the need for judicial vigilance in scrutinizing complaints lacking prima facie evidence and suggested invoking penal consequences against those misusing the law. The ruling balances stringent enforcement to protect minors with safeguards preventing exploitation of the statute for ulterior motives.