By Tanvi Mehta.  

In a recent ruling, the Bombay High Court addressed significant issues surrounding child sexual assault cases and the importance of proper investigation in such matters. The case involved the sexual abuse of two 4-year-old girls at a school in Thane’s Badlapur, which prompted the court to initiate a suo- motto hearing. 

The Court emphasised the need to sensitise boys to prevent such crimes. The court suggested tweaking the popular slogan “beti padhao, beti bachao” (educate girl, save girl) to “beta padhao, beti bachao” (educate boy, save girl), highlighting the importance of educating boys to tackle these issues. 

The Court expanded the mandate of a previously established committee. The committee’s role includes recommending measures to ensure the safety and security of girl children in educational institutions and addressing the trauma experienced by child victims of sexual assault. The bench expressed concern over the progress of the investigation in the Badlapur case, noting that the case diary had been drafted in a stereotypical manner without properly explaining the steps taken. The court stressed the importance of a thorough and unhurried investigation, cautioning against filing a chargesheet merely due to public pressure. 

Additionally, the court directed the state to ensure that private doctors are aware of their obligation to examine victims in cases under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO Act). The state assured the court that steps were being taken to address delays in compiling and submitting forensic reports in sexual assault cases.