First in Karnataka, a court that is child-friendly

A new-age court room in Karnataka has relaxed the parents of child-victims who have been struggling to keep their children away from any further trauma in court. A new-found concept which involves securing the dignity of minor children, who can easily be influenced by the accused or the circumstances, this is a cutting-edge way to restore justice. The key feature of these court rooms are two halls, separated by one-way glass shield that would isolate the victim child from seeing the accused. 

This will help the child give a fearless statement and recognise the culprits without being influenced by them. The accused will be standing on the other side of the glass shield. The child-friendly and POCSO-compliant court was inaugurated on Saturday at the City Civil Court premises near Mysore Bank Circle. The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (Pocso) directs court to maintain the rights and dignity of children while ensuring a speedy trial and procedural compliance in a child sensitive and non threatening ambiance.

Another feature includes the video-conferencing facility, which is provided between the court hall and the waiting room if the child doesn't want to depose before the court or if the family of the child wants to witness the proceedings from the waiting room. An exclusive elevator has also been provided for the judges, the children and their relatives. Moreover, the special court is also laced with toys and books for children to keep them diverted from the proceedings if it is too horrifying for them. A 32-lakh grant had been provided by the department of women and child development, under the Integrated Child Protection Scheme (ICPS). 

It is said that the court is also contemplating building such child-friendly courts in all districts of Karnataka in a phased manner. It is to be noted that cities like Delhi, Kolkata and Hyderabad already have such courts. 

• karnataka
• south