POCSO-- Village Panchayat Holds No Judicial Authority Over Sexual Offences Against Minors
Panchayats have no jurisdiction to settle criminal offences, particularly sexual offences against minors. A Sarpanch holds no judicial or magisterial authority. Under Sections 19 and 21 of the POCSO Act, any person aware of child sexual abuse must report it to the police or the Special Juvenile Police Unit. Subsequent marriage between accused and victim does not extinguish criminal liability. Delay in filing an FIR is not fatal where sufficiently explained. Minority of victim may be established through school admission register. A plea of juvenility of accused, unsupported by legally admissible material, cannot displace a proved conviction.
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