A 17-year-old national-level shooter has filed a complaint against her coach, accusing him of sexually assaulting her at a hotel in Faridabad last month. She said the coach pressured her to come to his hotel, claiming he wanted to discuss her performance during a competition. According to the complaint, the coach asked the girl to meet him at his hotel in Faridabad on December 16 to talk about her performance in the tournament. While she met him in the lobby, she says he pressured her to go up to his room for a more private discussion.&nbsp;When she went to the room, the coach allegedly assaulted her and then reportedly threatened to destroy her sports career and harm her family if she disclosed what had happened.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-cricket-schedule-2026-complete-odi-test-and-t20i-fixtures-for-the-men-in-blue-1767807294221">India cricket schedule 26: Complete ODI, Test &amp; T20I fixtures for Men in Blue</a>&nbsp;Because the athlete is a minor, the police have registered the case under the POCSO Act (laws specifically designed to protect children) and other serious criminal charges.&nbsp;The police are currently gathering evidence and are reviewing hotel security footage and phone records. Senior police officers are questioning hotel staff and other potential witnesses.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-s-venture-enters-into-new-partnership-to-expand-padel-footprint-in-india-1767799610002">Dhoni's venture enters into new partnership to expand padel footprint in India</a>&nbsp;“The allegations are serious. We are following due process and ensuring that all evidence is preserved,” an officer said.&nbsp;Authorities have emphasized that they are taking the matter very seriously and are working to preserve all forensic evidence.

The police are currently gathering evidence and are reviewing hotel security footage and phone records. Senior police officers are questioning hotel staff and other potential witnesses.

A 17-year-old national-level shooter has filed a complaint against her coach, accusing him of sexually assaulting her at a hotel in Faridabad last month. She said the coach pressured her to come to his hotel, claiming he wanted to discuss her performance during a competition. According to the complaint, the coach asked the girl to meet him at his hotel in Faridabad on December 16 to talk about her performance in the tournament. While she met him in the lobby, she says he pressured her to go up to his room for a more private discussion. When she went to the room, the coach allegedly assaulted her and then reportedly threatened to destroy her sports career and harm her family if she disclosed what had happened. Also Read - India cricket schedule 26: Complete ODI, Test & T20I fixtures for Men in Blue Because the athlete is a minor, the police have registered the case under the POCSO Act (laws specifically designed to protect children) and other serious criminal charges. The police are currently gathering evidence and are reviewing hotel security footage and phone records. Senior police officers are questioning hotel staff and other potential witnesses. Also Read - Dhoni's venture enters into new partnership to expand padel footprint in India “The allegations are serious. We are following due process and ensuring that all evidence is preserved,” an officer said. Authorities have emphasized that they are taking the matter very seriously and are working to preserve all forensic evidence.

The police are currently gathering evidence and are reviewing hotel security footage and phone records. Senior police officers are questioning hotel staff and other potential witnesses.

Sexual assault allegations against coach: FIR filed in Faridabad over threats to national shooter

In a POCSO case, the Delhi High Court emphasised that while the legal age of consent is crucial for protecting minors, adolescents should be permitted to express their feelings and engage in relationships without the fear of criminalisation.
The court highlighted that the focus of the law should be on preventing exploitation and abuse, rather than punishing love. The court affirmed that consensual and respectful adolescent love is a natural part of human development.
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The Delhi High Court recently stated that societal and legal perspectives on adolescent love should emphasise the rights of young individuals to engage in romantic relationships free from exploitation and abuse. The court affirmed that love is a fundamental human experience, and adolescents have the right to form emotional connections.
The Court of Justice Jasmeet Singh also observed that law should evolve to acknowledge and respect these relationships, provided they are consensual and free from coercion.
Furthermore, the court emphasized that the legal system must safeguard the rights of young individuals to love while ensuring their safety and well-being. The court advocated for a compassionate approach that prioritizes understanding over punishment in cases involving adolescent love.
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The court noted that in the present case, the prosecutrix unequivocally stated that her relationship with the respondent was consensual during her statement under Section 164 of the CrPC. She also testified in court that the physical relations between her and the respondent were consensual.
The evidence in this case clearly indicates the prosecutrix's willingness to accompany the respondent, and the physical relations were established with her consent.
Furthermore, the court observed that the MLC report of the prosecutrix does not support the prosecution's case, as there were no injuries indicating resistance to the sexual act. Consequently, it was determined that the relations between the prosecutrix and the appellant were consensual.
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The court was dealing with an appeal filed by the Delhi Police challenging a trial court order that had acquitted the respondent under Section 4 of the POCSO Act. The trial court had observed that the prosecution failed to prove beyond reasonable doubt that the child victim was less than 18 years old on the date of the incident.
Additionally, it was established that the accused had physical relations with the child victim with her consent. As per the well-settled law, the benefit of doubt always goes in favor of the accused. Accordingly, the accused, Hitesh, was acquitted under Section 4 read with Section 3 of the POCSO Act.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a ANI feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.
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India News: The Delhi High Court recently stated that societal and legal perspectives on adolescent love should emphasise the rights of young individuals to engage in romantic relationships free from exploitation and abuse.

In a POCSO case, the Delhi High Court emphasised that while the legal age of consent is crucial for protecting minors, adolescents should be permitted to express their feelings and engage in relationships without the fear of criminalisation. The court highlighted that the focus of the law should be on preventing exploitation and abuse, rather than punishing love. The court affirmed that consensual and respectful adolescent love is a natural part of human development. Also read: 'Did a terrible job': Trump blasts 'modestly successful comedian' Zelensky, says he won't have a country left The Delhi High Court recently stated that societal and legal perspectives on adolescent love should emphasise the rights of young individuals to engage in romantic relationships free from exploitation and abuse. The court affirmed that love is a fundamental human experience, and adolescents have the right to form emotional connections. The Court of Justice Jasmeet Singh also observed that law should evolve to acknowledge and respect these relationships, provided they are consensual and free from coercion. Furthermore, the court emphasized that the legal system must safeguard the rights of young individuals to love while ensuring their safety and well-being. The court advocated for a compassionate approach that prioritizes understanding over punishment in cases involving adolescent love. Also read: Rekha Gupta to be next Delhi CM, Arvind Kejriwal says ‘I hope she…’ The court noted that in the present case, the prosecutrix unequivocally stated that her relationship with the respondent was consensual during her statement under Section 164 of the CrPC. She also testified in court that the physical relations between her and the respondent were consensual. The evidence in this case clearly indicates the prosecutrix's willingness to accompany the respondent, and the physical relations were established with her consent. Furthermore, the court observed that the MLC report of the prosecutrix does not support the prosecution's case, as there were no injuries indicating resistance to the sexual act. Consequently, it was determined that the relations between the prosecutrix and the appellant were consensual. Also read: Rekha Gupta named next Delhi Chief Minister, India's capital gets 4th woman head of government The court was dealing with an appeal filed by the Delhi Police challenging a trial court order that had acquitted the respondent under Section 4 of the POCSO Act. The trial court had observed that the prosecution failed to prove beyond reasonable doubt that the child victim was less than 18 years old on the date of the incident. Additionally, it was established that the accused had physical relations with the child victim with her consent. As per the well-settled law, the benefit of doubt always goes in favor of the accused. Accordingly, the accused, Hitesh, was acquitted under Section 4 read with Section 3 of the POCSO Act. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a ANI feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Delhi HC says adolescent relationships must not be punished under POCSO

ANI | A 13-year-old girl student was allegedly sexually assaulted by three teachers at a government middle school in Tamil Nadu's Krishnagiri district.
According to Krishnagiri Collector, C Dinesh Kumar, the three accused teachers have been arrested under various sections of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
They have also been suspended by the District Education Officer (DEO).
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"The accused teachers have been sent to police remand for 15 days," the Collector said.
The girl had not attended school from January 3, following which an inquiry was done by the school in person visiting her home.
The victim has been provided with necessary counselling and the matter is being investigated.
"Then incident came to light that child got affected. On the guidance of school teachers, girl parents gave complaint in Bargur All Women Police Station. Based on Police Station recommendation, parents of victim contacted Child Safety officer. Required Counselling has been given to the victim. District Child Safety Officers and Police are investigating the matter," the officials said.
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Notably this incident comes months after another major incident had stirred Tamil Nadu.
A second-year student of Anna University was allegedly sexually assaulted on the Anna University campus on December 23, 2024 night, Chennai Police said.
One person has been arrested in connection with the case. The Madras High Court has ordered the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) comprising three IPS officers to investigate the Anna University alleged sexual assault case.
Disclaimer: This story has been published fromAGENCIES ANI feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
&nbsp;

India news: Krishnagiri Collector, C Dinesh Kumar said three accused teachers have been arrested under various sections of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act.

ANI | A 13-year-old girl student was allegedly sexually assaulted by three teachers at a government middle school in Tamil Nadu's Krishnagiri district. According to Krishnagiri Collector, C Dinesh Kumar, the three accused teachers have been arrested under various sections of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. They have also been suspended by the District Education Officer (DEO). Also read: Tamil Nadu kabaddi players brutally attacked In Punjab: Watch video "The accused teachers have been sent to police remand for 15 days," the Collector said. The girl had not attended school from January 3, following which an inquiry was done by the school in person visiting her home. The victim has been provided with necessary counselling and the matter is being investigated. "Then incident came to light that child got affected. On the guidance of school teachers, girl parents gave complaint in Bargur All Women Police Station. Based on Police Station recommendation, parents of victim contacted Child Safety officer. Required Counselling has been given to the victim. District Child Safety Officers and Police are investigating the matter," the officials said. Also read: Tamil Nadu government announces $590,000 prize money after D Gukesh's record-breaking feat Notably this incident comes months after another major incident had stirred Tamil Nadu. A second-year student of Anna University was allegedly sexually assaulted on the Anna University campus on December 23, 2024 night, Chennai Police said. One person has been arrested in connection with the case. The Madras High Court has ordered the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) comprising three IPS officers to investigate the Anna University alleged sexual assault case. Disclaimer: This story has been published fromAGENCIES ANI feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Three teachers arrested for sexually assaulting  13-year-old student in Tamil Nadu govt school

Ekta Kapoor&nbsp;and her mother, Shobha Kapoor, have broken their silence over the case registered against them under the POCSO act for ALT Balaji's web series 'Gandi Baat'. They refuted the claims and shared an official statement on Tuesday.&nbsp;

ALTBalaji's official Instagram handle shared a statement clarifying that Shobha and Ekta are "not involved in day-to-day" operations of the company.&nbsp;

The official statement read, "With reference to various media reports regarding the web series Gandi Baat, ALT Digital Media Entertainment LTD. (Company) hereby clarifies that it is fully compliant with all applicable laws&nbsp;including the POCSO Act&nbsp;and any reference to engagement of minors by the company is entirely incorrect."

The statement also mentioned that the mother-daughter duo is not involved in the day-to-day operations of the company, and the same is managed by separate teams.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
"It is further clarified that Mrs&nbsp;Shobha Kapoor&nbsp;and Ms Ektaa R Kapoor are not involved in the day to day operations of the company and the same are managed by separate teams, including its content strategy. The company has complete faith in the judiciary and is fully co-operating with the authorities in the investigation. since the matter is sub-judice, the company refrains from commenting in detail," the statement added.&nbsp;

The Mumbai Police interrogated producer&nbsp;Ekta Kapoor&nbsp;and her mother, Shobha Kapoor, who were booked under the POCSO Act for allegedly showing inappropriate scenes involving minor girls in an episode of the ALT Balaji's web series 'Gandi Baat'.&nbsp;

On Monday, during interrogation, they were asked to appear for questioning again on October 24. Mumbai Police has sought information about the actors working in the series. They will also record the statement of the actors and director of the film, as per Mumbai Police's statement. The police also have asked&nbsp;Ekta Kapoor&nbsp;and&nbsp;Shobha Kapoor&nbsp;to bring some documents related to Alt Balaji.&nbsp;

Earlier, Mumbai Police registered a case against&nbsp;Ekta Kapoor,&nbsp;Shobha Kapoor, and Alt Balaji company, under the POCSO Act.&nbsp;

The case is related to season 6 of the web series 'Gandi Baat' on the OTT platform 'Alt Balaji'.&nbsp;

It is written in the complaint that this series, which streamed on 'Alt Balaji' between February 2021 and April 2021, showed obscene scenes of minor girls. However, this controversial episode is not currently streaming on this app.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Ektaa's drama film Love, Sex aur Dhokha 2&nbsp;was released in theatres on April 19. LSD 2&nbsp;is helmed by Dibakar Banerjee. With a thought-provoking poster, the team confronts the audience with the stark reality of our digitally obsessed society, capturing a couple engaged in both intimate connection and technological detachment simultaneously.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Ekta Kapoor and her mother, Shobha Kapoor, have broken their silence over the case registered against them under the POCSO act for ALT Balaji's web series 'Gandi Baat'.

Ekta Kapoor and her mother, Shobha Kapoor, have broken their silence over the case registered against them under the POCSO act for ALT Balaji's web series 'Gandi Baat'. They refuted the claims and shared an official statement on Tuesday. ALTBalaji's official Instagram handle shared a statement clarifying that Shobha and Ekta are "not involved in day-to-day" operations of the company. The official statement read, "With reference to various media reports regarding the web series Gandi Baat, ALT Digital Media Entertainment LTD. (Company) hereby clarifies that it is fully compliant with all applicable laws including the POCSO Act and any reference to engagement of minors by the company is entirely incorrect." The statement also mentioned that the mother-daughter duo is not involved in the day-to-day operations of the company, and the same is managed by separate teams. "It is further clarified that Mrs Shobha Kapoor and Ms Ektaa R Kapoor are not involved in the day to day operations of the company and the same are managed by separate teams, including its content strategy. The company has complete faith in the judiciary and is fully co-operating with the authorities in the investigation. since the matter is sub-judice, the company refrains from commenting in detail," the statement added. The Mumbai Police interrogated producer Ekta Kapoor and her mother, Shobha Kapoor, who were booked under the POCSO Act for allegedly showing inappropriate scenes involving minor girls in an episode of the ALT Balaji's web series 'Gandi Baat'. On Monday, during interrogation, they were asked to appear for questioning again on October 24. Mumbai Police has sought information about the actors working in the series. They will also record the statement of the actors and director of the film, as per Mumbai Police's statement. The police also have asked Ekta Kapoor and Shobha Kapoor to bring some documents related to Alt Balaji. Earlier, Mumbai Police registered a case against Ekta Kapoor, Shobha Kapoor, and Alt Balaji company, under the POCSO Act. The case is related to season 6 of the web series 'Gandi Baat' on the OTT platform 'Alt Balaji'. It is written in the complaint that this series, which streamed on 'Alt Balaji' between February 2021 and April 2021, showed obscene scenes of minor girls. However, this controversial episode is not currently streaming on this app. Meanwhile, Ektaa's drama film Love, Sex aur Dhokha 2 was released in theatres on April 19. LSD 2 is helmed by Dibakar Banerjee. With a thought-provoking poster, the team confronts the audience with the stark reality of our digitally obsessed society, capturing a couple engaged in both intimate connection and technological detachment simultaneously. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

‘Not involved in day-to-day operations’: Ekta Kapoor issues statement on case filed under POCSO Act

A female can also face criminal proceedings under POCSO for committing the offence of "penetrative sexual assault" on a child, and the offence is not restricted to only male offenders the Delhi High Court has held.

Justice Anup Jairam Bhambhani said the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act was enacted to protect children from sexual offences, "regardless of whether an offence is committed upon a child by a man or a woman". There was no reason why the word "person" appearing in section 3 (penetrative sexual assault) should be read as referring only to a "male", he added.

The court’s decision was delivered last week on a plea by an accused in a POCSO case, who argued that since she was a woman, the offences of "penetrative sexual assault" and "aggravated penetrative sexual assault" can simply not be made out against her.

The accused, while assailing the framing of charges against her, contended that a plain reading of the provision showed that it only, and repeatedly, used the pronoun "he", meaning that the intent of the legislature was only to make a man liable for the offence.

However, the court said there is no reason why the word "person" appearing in section 3 of the POCSO Act should be read as referring only to a "male".

"It is accordingly held that the acts mentioned in sections 3 and 5 (aggravated penetrative sexual assault) of the POCSO Act are an offence regardless of the gender of the offender, provided the acts are committed upon a child," the court said in the judgment.

"Giving due regard to the fact that the Legislature enacted the POCSO Act in order to provide protection to children from sexual offences – regardless of whether an offence is committed upon a child by a man or a woman – the court must not interpret any provision of the statute that derogates from the legislative intent and purpose," it stated.

The court noted that under the Indian Penal Code (IPC), the pronoun "he" and its derivatives are used for any person, whether male or female, and the POCSO provision must not be interpreted in a manner that restricts the offence only to a man.

"When viewed from this lens, the only rational inference is that the pronoun ‘he’ appearing in section 3(a), 3(b), 3(c) and 3(d) must not be so interpreted as to restrict the offence engrafted in those sections only to a ‘man’.

"It is extremely important to note that the said provisions include within the ambit of penetrative sexual assault, the insertion of any object or body-part; or the manipulation of any body part of a child to cause penetration; or the application of the mouth. It would therefore be completely illogical to say that the offence contemplated in those provisions refers only to penetration by a penis," the court observed.

The court, on a prima-facie consideration of the material, therefore, ruled that the offence of "aggravated penetrative sexual assault" was made out against the petitioner, even though she was a woman.

"The petitioner is therefore required to be put to trial for the offences as charged. The petition is accordingly dismissed," held the court.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

A female can also face criminal proceedings under POCSO for committing the offence of "penetrative sexual assault" on a child, and the offence is not restricted to only male offenders the Delhi High Court has held.

A female can also face criminal proceedings under POCSO for committing the offence of "penetrative sexual assault" on a child, and the offence is not restricted to only male offenders the Delhi High Court has held. Justice Anup Jairam Bhambhani said the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act was enacted to protect children from sexual offences, "regardless of whether an offence is committed upon a child by a man or a woman". There was no reason why the word "person" appearing in section 3 (penetrative sexual assault) should be read as referring only to a "male", he added. The court’s decision was delivered last week on a plea by an accused in a POCSO case, who argued that since she was a woman, the offences of "penetrative sexual assault" and "aggravated penetrative sexual assault" can simply not be made out against her. The accused, while assailing the framing of charges against her, contended that a plain reading of the provision showed that it only, and repeatedly, used the pronoun "he", meaning that the intent of the legislature was only to make a man liable for the offence. However, the court said there is no reason why the word "person" appearing in section 3 of the POCSO Act should be read as referring only to a "male". "It is accordingly held that the acts mentioned in sections 3 and 5 (aggravated penetrative sexual assault) of the POCSO Act are an offence regardless of the gender of the offender, provided the acts are committed upon a child," the court said in the judgment. "Giving due regard to the fact that the Legislature enacted the POCSO Act in order to provide protection to children from sexual offences – regardless of whether an offence is committed upon a child by a man or a woman – the court must not interpret any provision of the statute that derogates from the legislative intent and purpose," it stated. The court noted that under the Indian Penal Code (IPC), the pronoun "he" and its derivatives are used for any person, whether male or female, and the POCSO provision must not be interpreted in a manner that restricts the offence only to a man. "When viewed from this lens, the only rational inference is that the pronoun ‘he’ appearing in section 3(a), 3(b), 3(c) and 3(d) must not be so interpreted as to restrict the offence engrafted in those sections only to a ‘man’. "It is extremely important to note that the said provisions include within the ambit of penetrative sexual assault, the insertion of any object or body-part; or the manipulation of any body part of a child to cause penetration; or the application of the mouth. It would therefore be completely illogical to say that the offence contemplated in those provisions refers only to penetration by a penis," the court observed. The court, on a prima-facie consideration of the material, therefore, ruled that the offence of "aggravated penetrative sexual assault" was made out against the petitioner, even though she was a woman. "The petitioner is therefore required to be put to trial for the offences as charged. The petition is accordingly dismissed," held the court. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Delhi HC says POCSO Act applies to both genders in sexual assault cases; women can be charged too

Accused of sexually harassing several women wrestlers, including minors, the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh – also booked under the POCSO Act, has alleged the law is being ‘misused on a large scale’ and that he will ‘force the ruling government to change it.’ Currently in Uttar Pradesh’s Bahraich regarding preparations for a rally of seers called by him in Ayodhya on June 5 - Bhushan made these comments on Thursday.

Several top wrestlers in the country, including Olympic medallists Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik alongside Vinesh Phogat, among others, are protesting against Brij Bhushan Singh, who is also a BJP MP from Kaiserganj, for alleged sexual harassment of&nbsp;women grapplers over a long period. These wrestlers, who had brought laurels for the country at various tournaments, are protesting at New Delhi’s Jantar Mantar since April 23rd, calling for&nbsp;the arrest of the WFI chief.

As quoted by the PTI, Bhushan said, the POCSO Act was brought by the Congress government without examining its various aspects and that it is often misused against children, the elderly and seers.

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"This law is being misused against children, the elderly and seers. Even officials are not immune to its misuse," Brij Bhushan claimed. "Under the leadership of seers, we will force the government to change the (POCSO) law," he was quoted by news agency PTI as saying.

Brij Bhushan also said that the allegations levelled against him are false.

<h2>Wrestlers still protesting at Jantar Mantar</h2>

Earlier, after many failed attempts by the wrestlers to register an FIR against Brij Bhushan Singh, Delhi Police lodged two against him, with the first FIR about the sexual harassment allegations by a minor wrestler, for which Bhushan is booked under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, whereas, the second FIR is related to outraging modesty.

Meanwhile, when these wrestlers first protested against the WFI chief early this year, the Sports Ministry took action, and an overnight committee got formed, chaired by the legendary Mary Kom, to begin the probe into the matter. However, a few months later, when no action was taken against the accused, the wrestlers went back to&nbsp;protesting.

After several other sports personalities raised their voices against the same and backed the wrestlers, Delhi Police finally lodged two FIRs.

As of now, till the probe is finished and a decision is taken, the Sports Ministry has stopped all&nbsp;activities of the wrestling federation.

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Accused of sexually harassing several women wrestlers, including minors, the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh – also booked under the POCSO Act, has alleged the law is being ‘misused on a large scale’ and that he will ‘force the ruling government to change it.

Accused of sexually harassing several women wrestlers, including minors, the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh – also booked under the POCSO Act, has alleged the law is being ‘misused on a large scale’ and that he will ‘force the ruling government to change it.’ Currently in Uttar Pradesh’s Bahraich regarding preparations for a rally of seers called by him in Ayodhya on June 5 - Bhushan made these comments on Thursday. Several top wrestlers in the country, including Olympic medallists Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik alongside Vinesh Phogat, among others, are protesting against Brij Bhushan Singh, who is also a BJP MP from Kaiserganj, for alleged sexual harassment of women grapplers over a long period. These wrestlers, who had brought laurels for the country at various tournaments, are protesting at New Delhi’s Jantar Mantar since April 23rd, calling for the arrest of the WFI chief. As quoted by the PTI, Bhushan said, the POCSO Act was brought by the Congress government without examining its various aspects and that it is often misused against children, the elderly and seers. ALSO READ: Jason Roy breaks silence on 'unwanted speculation' about cancelling ECB contract to play in MLC 2023 "This law is being misused against children, the elderly and seers. Even officials are not immune to its misuse," Brij Bhushan claimed. "Under the leadership of seers, we will force the government to change the (POCSO) law," he was quoted by news agency PTI as saying. Brij Bhushan also said that the allegations levelled against him are false. Wrestlers still protesting at Jantar Mantar Earlier, after many failed attempts by the wrestlers to register an FIR against Brij Bhushan Singh, Delhi Police lodged two against him, with the first FIR about the sexual harassment allegations by a minor wrestler, for which Bhushan is booked under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, whereas, the second FIR is related to outraging modesty. Meanwhile, when these wrestlers first protested against the WFI chief early this year, the Sports Ministry took action, and an overnight committee got formed, chaired by the legendary Mary Kom, to begin the probe into the matter. However, a few months later, when no action was taken against the accused, the wrestlers went back to protesting. After several other sports personalities raised their voices against the same and backed the wrestlers, Delhi Police finally lodged two FIRs. As of now, till the probe is finished and a decision is taken, the Sports Ministry has stopped all activities of the wrestling federation. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Booked under POCSO Act, accused WFI chief Brij Bhushan Singh urges government to change law

The Supreme Court of India has overturned a verdict by the Bombay High Court in a sexual assault case.

In a case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, the apex court has&nbsp;ruled that the most important ingredient in a rape case is sexual intent and not skin-to-skin contact with the child.

The purpose of the law cannot be to allow the offender to escape the meshes of the law, it added.

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A bench headed by Justice U U Lalit said, ''We have held that when the legislature has expressed clear intention, the courts cannot create ambiguity in the provision. It is right that courts cannot be overzealous in creating ambiguity.''

''Such a narrow interpretation adopted by the high court in the impugned order would have had a cascading effect on the safety of women and children,'' it added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-parliament-passes-bill-for-chemical-castration-of-habitual-rapists-430233" hreflang="en">Pakistan parliament passes bill for chemical castration of habitual rapists&nbsp;</a>

In response, the National Commission for Women (NCW) said in a statement, "The Commission welcomes the Hon'ble Supreme Court's verdict today and believes that the apex court's decision in the matter will uphold the legal and constitutional safeguard for women and children."&nbsp;

The High Court had acquitted a 39-year-old man under the POCSO Act after he had been found guilty of sexual sexually assaulting a 12-year-old girl and sentenced him to three years of imprisonment.

He was charged with the offence of outraging a woman's modesty under IPC section 354. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Supreme Court of India has overturned a verdict by the Bombay High Court in a sexual assault case. In a case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, the apex court has ruled that the most important ingredient in a rape case is sexual intent and not skin-to-skin contact with the child.

The Supreme Court of India has overturned a verdict by the Bombay High Court in a sexual assault case. In a case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, the apex court has ruled that the most important ingredient in a rape case is sexual intent and not skin-to-skin contact with the child. The purpose of the law cannot be to allow the offender to escape the meshes of the law, it added. Also read | India, China to hold 14th round of talks today to resolve border standoff A bench headed by Justice U U Lalit said, ''We have held that when the legislature has expressed clear intention, the courts cannot create ambiguity in the provision. It is right that courts cannot be overzealous in creating ambiguity.'' ''Such a narrow interpretation adopted by the high court in the impugned order would have had a cascading effect on the safety of women and children,'' it added. Also read | Pakistan parliament passes bill for chemical castration of habitual rapists In response, the National Commission for Women (NCW) said in a statement, "The Commission welcomes the Hon'ble Supreme Court's verdict today and believes that the apex court's decision in the matter will uphold the legal and constitutional safeguard for women and children." The High Court had acquitted a 39-year-old man under the POCSO Act after he had been found guilty of sexual sexually assaulting a 12-year-old girl and sentenced him to three years of imprisonment. He was charged with the offence of outraging a woman's modesty under IPC section 354. (With inputs from agencies)

India's SC sets aside lower court's ruling that skin-to-skin contact is essential for sexual offence case

The government on Wednesday said that there are over 2.4 lakh pending cases in courts related to rape and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act across the country till December last year.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-strengthens-pocso-act-approves-death-penalty-for-aggravated-sexual-assault-against-minors-187017">Government strengthens POCSO Act, approves death penalty for aggravated sexual assault against minors</a>

According to a written reply in Lok Sabha by the Ministry of Law and Justice, Uttar Pradesh tops the list of states with 66,994 pending rape cases followed by Maharashtra with 21,691 and 20,511 in West Bengal.

"As per information received from High Courts, the status of pending cases related to rape and POCSO Act, as on December 31, 2019, is 2,44,001," Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad informed the Lower House in response to a query by Janata Dal (United) leader Rajiv Ranjan (Lalan) Singh.

OPINION:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/india-rape-crisis-are-we-part-of-the-problem-267388">India rape crisis: Are we part of the problem?</a>

In furtherance to, the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2018, a scheme was finalized for setting up of 1,023 Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) across the country for expeditious trial and disposal of pending cases related to Rape and Prevention of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, in a time-bound manner under Centrally-Sponsored Scheme.

So far, the Central's share of funds amounting to Rs 99.43 crore has been released during 2019-20 to 27 States/UTs which have so far consented to set up of 649 number of FTSCs.

"As per information received from High Courts, 195 FTSCs have already been set up till January 31, 2020," the Ministry said. Surprisingly, not even a single FTSCs have been set up in states like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra and West Bengal where the maximum number of rape cases are pending.

According to proposed FTSCs, the&nbsp;maximum number of 218 courts will be in Uttar Pradesh, 138 in Maharashtra and 123 in West Bengal.

Andhra Pradesh will have 18, Telangana 36, Andaman and Nicobar Island 01, Arunachal Pradesh 03, Assam 27, Bihar 54, Chandigarh 01, Chhattisgarh 15, Goa 02, Gujrat 35, Haryana 16, Himachal Pradesh 06, Jammu &amp; Kashmir 04, Jharkhand 22, Karnataka 31, Kerala 56, Madhya Pradesh 67, Manipur 02, Meghalaya 05, Mizoram 03, Nagaland 01, NCT of Delhi 16, Odisha 45, Punjab 12, Rajasthan 45, Tamil Nadu 14, Tripura 03 and Uttarakhand 04 FTSCs.

In its reply, the minister said as per the scheme of FTSCs, each such Court is expected to dispose of 165 cases in a year for which States/UTs governments have been kept informed.

Among 195 Fast Track Special Courts functional and established for Women and Girl children under the Scheme of FTSCs till January 2020, 56 are in Madhya Pradesh, 15 are in Chhattisgarh, 16 in Delhi, three in Tripura, 22 in Jharkhand, 26 in Rajasthan, nine in Telangana, 34 in Gujarat and 14 in Tamil Nadu.

The government on Wednesday said that there are over 2.4 lakh pending cases in courts related to rape and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act across the country till December last year.

The government on Wednesday said that there are over 2.4 lakh pending cases in courts related to rape and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act across the country till December last year. Also read: Government strengthens POCSO Act, approves death penalty for aggravated sexual assault against minors According to a written reply in Lok Sabha by the Ministry of Law and Justice, Uttar Pradesh tops the list of states with 66,994 pending rape cases followed by Maharashtra with 21,691 and 20,511 in West Bengal. "As per information received from High Courts, the status of pending cases related to rape and POCSO Act, as on December 31, 2019, is 2,44,001," Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad informed the Lower House in response to a query by Janata Dal (United) leader Rajiv Ranjan (Lalan) Singh. OPINION: India rape crisis: Are we part of the problem? In furtherance to, the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2018, a scheme was finalized for setting up of 1,023 Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) across the country for expeditious trial and disposal of pending cases related to Rape and Prevention of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, in a time-bound manner under Centrally-Sponsored Scheme. So far, the Central's share of funds amounting to Rs 99.43 crore has been released during 2019-20 to 27 States/UTs which have so far consented to set up of 649 number of FTSCs. "As per information received from High Courts, 195 FTSCs have already been set up till January 31, 2020," the Ministry said. Surprisingly, not even a single FTSCs have been set up in states like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra and West Bengal where the maximum number of rape cases are pending. According to proposed FTSCs, the maximum number of 218 courts will be in Uttar Pradesh, 138 in Maharashtra and 123 in West Bengal. Andhra Pradesh will have 18, Telangana 36, Andaman and Nicobar Island 01, Arunachal Pradesh 03, Assam 27, Bihar 54, Chandigarh 01, Chhattisgarh 15, Goa 02, Gujrat 35, Haryana 16, Himachal Pradesh 06, Jammu & Kashmir 04, Jharkhand 22, Karnataka 31, Kerala 56, Madhya Pradesh 67, Manipur 02, Meghalaya 05, Mizoram 03, Nagaland 01, NCT of Delhi 16, Odisha 45, Punjab 12, Rajasthan 45, Tamil Nadu 14, Tripura 03 and Uttarakhand 04 FTSCs. In its reply, the minister said as per the scheme of FTSCs, each such Court is expected to dispose of 165 cases in a year for which States/UTs governments have been kept informed. Among 195 Fast Track Special Courts functional and established for Women and Girl children under the Scheme of FTSCs till January 2020, 56 are in Madhya Pradesh, 15 are in Chhattisgarh, 16 in Delhi, three in Tripura, 22 in Jharkhand, 26 in Rajasthan, nine in Telangana, 34 in Gujarat and 14 in Tamil Nadu.

Over 2.4 lakh cases relating to rape and POCSO pending in courts across country, says Government

The Supreme Court on Thursday directed the Centre to fund and set up exclusive courts in every district where 100 or more cases under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act are pending.

The special courts for the trial of cases of sexual offences against children should start functioning with 60 days, a bench of Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice Deepak Gupta ordered. These courts will not hear any other cases except those under the POCSO Act, it said.

The fund will not only take care of the appointment of presiding officers but also court staff, support staff, besides the infrastructure for vulnerable court complexes, the court noted. It asked the Centre to file a progress report in four weeks.&nbsp;

The bench also directed the chief secretaries of all states to ensure the effective functioning of the forensic science laboratories (FSL).&nbsp;

The order came after amicus curiae and senior advocate V Giri submitted his report on the directions of the court. Giri said there is a lack of proper judicial infrastructure for the trial of POCSO cases.

Earlier, the Supreme Court had asked its registry to collate district-wise data from the registrars of all the high courts on the total number of child rape cases and how long these have been pending.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court on Thursday directed the Centre to fund and set up exclusive courts in every district where 100 or more cases under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act are pending.

The Supreme Court on Thursday directed the Centre to fund and set up exclusive courts in every district where 100 or more cases under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act are pending. The special courts for the trial of cases of sexual offences against children should start functioning with 60 days, a bench of Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice Deepak Gupta ordered. These courts will not hear any other cases except those under the POCSO Act, it said. The fund will not only take care of the appointment of presiding officers but also court staff, support staff, besides the infrastructure for vulnerable court complexes, the court noted. It asked the Centre to file a progress report in four weeks. The bench also directed the chief secretaries of all states to ensure the effective functioning of the forensic science laboratories (FSL). The order came after amicus curiae and senior advocate V Giri submitted his report on the directions of the court. Giri said there is a lack of proper judicial infrastructure for the trial of POCSO cases. Earlier, the Supreme Court had asked its registry to collate district-wise data from the registrars of all the high courts on the total number of child rape cases and how long these have been pending.

Supreme Court directs Centre to fund, set up special POCSO courts

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/death-penalty-to-child-rapists-president-ram-nath-kovind-promulgates-the-ordinance-to-amend-pocso-act-131985">Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Amendment) Bill, 2019</a> was passed in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday.&nbsp;

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/death-for-raping-children-what-the-ordinance-says-131971">POCSO (Amendment) Bill </a>will make punishment more stringent for committing sexual crimes against children including the death penalty.

The amendments also provide for levy of fines and imprisonment to curb child pornography.

During the debates on the Bill in the Upper House, TMC MP Derek O`Brien said that he was sexually molested in his childhood while he was travelling on a bus.&nbsp;

"As a 13-year-old, after tennis practice, I boarded a crowded bus in short pants and a T-shirt. I was sexually molested, it was reason enough for an unknown man to ejaculate at shorts of this boy," he said.

"I did not speak about it, till I brought it up once much later in my life with my parents. We need to use this forum to reach out to people. The more people talk about it, the more children will be saved. Let`s work towards the prevention of this heinous crime," Brien said.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, the Union Cabinet had approved the Amendment in the POCSO Act 2012.

According to the Union Cabinet, the amendment is expected to discourage the trend of child sexual abuse by acting as a deterrent due to strong penal provisions incorporated in the Act.

"It intends to protect the interest of vulnerable children in times of distress and ensures their safety and dignity. The amendment is aimed to establish clarity regarding the aspects of child abuse and punishment thereof," it added.

The amendment in Section-2, Section-4, Section-5, Section-6, Section-9, Section-14, Section-15, Section-34, Section-42 and Section-45 of Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO)Act, 2012, is made to address the aspects of child sexual abuse in appropriate manner.

The government in its statement had said that the modification is made to address the need for stringent measures required to deter the rising trend of child sex abuse in the country on one hand and to address the menace of relatively new kind of crimes on the other hand.

The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Amendment) Bill, 2019 was passed in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday. The POCSO (Amendment) Bill will make punishment more stringent for committing sexual crimes against children including the death penalty.

The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Amendment) Bill, 2019 was passed in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday. The POCSO (Amendment) Bill will make punishment more stringent for committing sexual crimes against children including the death penalty. The amendments also provide for levy of fines and imprisonment to curb child pornography. During the debates on the Bill in the Upper House, TMC MP Derek O`Brien said that he was sexually molested in his childhood while he was travelling on a bus. "As a 13-year-old, after tennis practice, I boarded a crowded bus in short pants and a T-shirt. I was sexually molested, it was reason enough for an unknown man to ejaculate at shorts of this boy," he said. "I did not speak about it, till I brought it up once much later in my life with my parents. We need to use this forum to reach out to people. The more people talk about it, the more children will be saved. Let`s work towards the prevention of this heinous crime," Brien said. Earlier this month, the Union Cabinet had approved the Amendment in the POCSO Act 2012. According to the Union Cabinet, the amendment is expected to discourage the trend of child sexual abuse by acting as a deterrent due to strong penal provisions incorporated in the Act. "It intends to protect the interest of vulnerable children in times of distress and ensures their safety and dignity. The amendment is aimed to establish clarity regarding the aspects of child abuse and punishment thereof," it added. The amendment in Section-2, Section-4, Section-5, Section-6, Section-9, Section-14, Section-15, Section-34, Section-42 and Section-45 of Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO)Act, 2012, is made to address the aspects of child sexual abuse in appropriate manner. The government in its statement had said that the modification is made to address the need for stringent measures required to deter the rising trend of child sex abuse in the country on one hand and to address the menace of relatively new kind of crimes on the other hand.

Rajya Sabha passes POCSO (Amendment) Bill, 2019

A four-year-old girl was raped, stabbed and stuffed in a container by a man who worked at the sweet shop of the victim's father.

The accused, identified as Bhola alias Virendra, is a resident of Faridabad's Palwal. Preliminary investigation revealed that Bhola lured the victim to come with him at his house on Thursday afternoon. The CCTV footage installed outside the sweet shop showed the 24-year-old holding the victim's hand and taking her away.

After taking the minor to his home, the accused perpetrated the rape, followed by a brutal murder. The child's body was then dumped by him in a container at his house.

After the girl remained missing till the evening, the parents and locals were caught with panic and began the search operation. "He (Bhola) even joined us in searching our child at every nook and corner," said the victim's father, adding that this bluff was exposed after the police examined the CCTV footage.

When the police reached the accused's home, his mother reportedly attempted to prevent the cops from entering inside. In the search operation, the drum containing the deceased's body was found in an isolated dark spot.

"We demand justice. He (Bhola) must be hanged till death at the earliest," the victim's father said while speaking to reporters.

As per the amended POCSO Act, rape of a minor attracts the maximum punishment of death. The police has charged the accused under the amended provisions of POCSO Act, along with various sections of the Indian Penal Code.

After taking the minor to his home, the accused perpetrated the rape, followed by a brutal murder.

A four-year-old girl was raped, stabbed and stuffed in a container by a man who worked at the sweet shop of the victim's father. The accused, identified as Bhola alias Virendra, is a resident of Faridabad's Palwal. Preliminary investigation revealed that Bhola lured the victim to come with him at his house on Thursday afternoon. The CCTV footage installed outside the sweet shop showed the 24-year-old holding the victim's hand and taking her away. After taking the minor to his home, the accused perpetrated the rape, followed by a brutal murder. The child's body was then dumped by him in a container at his house. After the girl remained missing till the evening, the parents and locals were caught with panic and began the search operation. "He (Bhola) even joined us in searching our child at every nook and corner," said the victim's father, adding that this bluff was exposed after the police examined the CCTV footage. When the police reached the accused's home, his mother reportedly attempted to prevent the cops from entering inside. In the search operation, the drum containing the deceased's body was found in an isolated dark spot. "We demand justice. He (Bhola) must be hanged till death at the earliest," the victim's father said while speaking to reporters. As per the amended POCSO Act, rape of a minor attracts the maximum punishment of death. The police has charged the accused under the amended provisions of POCSO Act, along with various sections of the Indian Penal Code.

4-year-old girl raped, stabbed, dumped in container in Haryana's Faridabad

&nbsp;A nine-year-old girl was allegedly raped by a 25-year-old man in Uttar Pradesh's Unnao district&nbsp;on Thursday.

The minor girl, who was accompanying her mother to a river, went missing for a while, after which she was found in nearby bushes, covered in blood.

The victim was immediately rushed to a hospital for medical examination, reports of which suggested that she was raped. As per the police, the accused has been arrested. "We have registered the case and have arrested the accused.

Further investigation is underway," said circle officer S.K. Singh. Unnao had recently hit the headlines, when its MLA, Kuldeep Sengar, was arrested last month by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on the charges of raping a minor.

In the recent past, there has been a surge in sexual crimes against minor girls. In January, an eight-year-old girl, who belonged to a nomadic Muslim tribe in Jammu and Kashmir`s Kathua, was allegedly abducted, drugged, gang-raped, tortured and killed.

In Indore, an infant below the age of one was allegedly raped and killed.

Taking cognisance of such crimes, President Ram Nath Kovind, on&nbsp;April 22, promulgated the Criminal Law (Amendment) Ordinance, 2018, for effective deterrence against the commission of rape.

The ordinance seeks the death penalty for the rapists of girls below 12 years of age and stringent punishment for perpetrators of rape particularly of girls below 16 years, thereby strengthening the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

The minor girl, who was accompanying her mother to a river, went missing for a while, after which she was found in nearby bushes, covered in blood

A nine-year-old girl was allegedly raped by a 25-year-old man in Uttar Pradesh's Unnao district on Thursday. The minor girl, who was accompanying her mother to a river, went missing for a while, after which she was found in nearby bushes, covered in blood. The victim was immediately rushed to a hospital for medical examination, reports of which suggested that she was raped. As per the police, the accused has been arrested. "We have registered the case and have arrested the accused. Further investigation is underway," said circle officer S.K. Singh. Unnao had recently hit the headlines, when its MLA, Kuldeep Sengar, was arrested last month by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on the charges of raping a minor. In the recent past, there has been a surge in sexual crimes against minor girls. In January, an eight-year-old girl, who belonged to a nomadic Muslim tribe in Jammu and Kashmir`s Kathua, was allegedly abducted, drugged, gang-raped, tortured and killed. In Indore, an infant below the age of one was allegedly raped and killed. Taking cognisance of such crimes, President Ram Nath Kovind, on April 22, promulgated the Criminal Law (Amendment) Ordinance, 2018, for effective deterrence against the commission of rape. The ordinance seeks the death penalty for the rapists of girls below 12 years of age and stringent punishment for perpetrators of rape particularly of girls below 16 years, thereby strengthening the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

Unnao: 9-year-old girl raped, investigations underway

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/dcw-chairperson-swati-maliwal-to-end-nine-day-hunger-strike-today-131978">DCW Chief Swati Maliwal </a>has requested the Prime Minister to set up a special task force and establish fast-track courts for hearing rape cases.

She urged the government to create a plan in the next 15 days adding that more police force should be employed in the next three months for handling rapes.

Expressing her dissapointment over the "communalisation of rapes" she also said that suddenly the religion of the victim has become important.

She also thanked the Prime Minister for amending the POCSO Act.&nbsp;

However, she added that the the new amendments awarding the death penalty to those convicted of raping children up to 12 years of age will not lead to any change on ground unless it is ensured that all rape cases are tried within six months.

In her letter to the Prime Minister, the DCW chief has requested him to set up special task force across the states consisting of highest representatives of Centre, states and judiciary.

She also called for an urgent meeting of the Union Home Minister, Chief Justice of Delhi High Court, Lieutenant Governor and Chief Minister of Delhi, Police Commissioner and DCW to create a plan for increasing police resources and fast track courts in Delhi.

Raising concerns about the growing incidents of " irresponsible" statements by politicians and people, she said a strict action should be taken against them.

The DCW chairperson was on indefinite hunger strike for 10 days demanding death for rapists of minors. She ended her fast after the Union Cabinet approved an ordinance to allow courts to award death penalty to those convicted of raping children up to 12 years of age.

She urged the government to create a plan in the next 15 days adding that more police force should be employed in the next three months for handling rapes

DCW Chief Swati Maliwal has requested the Prime Minister to set up a special task force and establish fast-track courts for hearing rape cases. She urged the government to create a plan in the next 15 days adding that more police force should be employed in the next three months for handling rapes. Expressing her dissapointment over the "communalisation of rapes" she also said that suddenly the religion of the victim has become important. She also thanked the Prime Minister for amending the POCSO Act. However, she added that the the new amendments awarding the death penalty to those convicted of raping children up to 12 years of age will not lead to any change on ground unless it is ensured that all rape cases are tried within six months. In her letter to the Prime Minister, the DCW chief has requested him to set up special task force across the states consisting of highest representatives of Centre, states and judiciary. She also called for an urgent meeting of the Union Home Minister, Chief Justice of Delhi High Court, Lieutenant Governor and Chief Minister of Delhi, Police Commissioner and DCW to create a plan for increasing police resources and fast track courts in Delhi. Raising concerns about the growing incidents of " irresponsible" statements by politicians and people, she said a strict action should be taken against them. The DCW chairperson was on indefinite hunger strike for 10 days demanding death for rapists of minors. She ended her fast after the Union Cabinet approved an ordinance to allow courts to award death penalty to those convicted of raping children up to 12 years of age.

Set up task forces to establish fast-track courts for rape cases: DCW Swati Maliwal writes to PM

A 16-year-old girl was allegedly gang-raped by three youths including a relative for hours inside a moving a car in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh.

The incident occurred on April 18, according to the victim's statement.

The girl has alleged that three people, including a distant relative and a fellow classmate offered to drop her home since she had missed her school bus. But that the men then gang-raped her.

The third accused in the case has not yet been unidentified.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In her statement to police, the 16-year old has alleged her attackers forced her to have a spiked drink before they attacked her.

The girl's parents filed a police complaint in the evening after she did not return home.

The police later found her on a road near Knowledge Park at about 2 am in the morning.

The girl, whe was unconscious when she was found, was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital.

She recorded her statement after being discharged.

News reports quoted a senior police officer investigating the matter as saying a case has been registered under sections 376D of the Indian Penal Code and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO) Act.

Police added that all three accused are absconding.

 
&nbsp;

A second attacker was a classmate. The third attacker has not been identified

A 16-year-old girl was allegedly gang-raped by three youths including a relative for hours inside a moving a car in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh. The incident occurred on April 18, according to the victim's statement. The girl has alleged that three people, including a distant relative and a fellow classmate offered to drop her home since she had missed her school bus. But that the men then gang-raped her. The third accused in the case has not yet been unidentified. In her statement to police, the 16-year old has alleged her attackers forced her to have a spiked drink before they attacked her. The girl's parents filed a police complaint in the evening after she did not return home. The police later found her on a road near Knowledge Park at about 2 am in the morning. The girl, whe was unconscious when she was found, was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital. She recorded her statement after being discharged. News reports quoted a senior police officer investigating the matter as saying a case has been registered under sections 376D of the Indian Penal Code and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO) Act. Police added that all three accused are absconding.

Noida: 16-year-old girl allegedly gang-raped in moving car, 1 attacker was a relative

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/canada-10-dead-15-injured-after-van-ploughs-into-crowd-on-toronto-sidewalk-132406">10 dead, 15 injured after van ploughs into </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/canada-10-dead-15-injured-after-van-ploughs-into-crowd-on-toronto-sidewalk-132406">crowd</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/canada-10-dead-15-injured-after-van-ploughs-into-crowd-on-toronto-sidewalk-132406"> on Toronto sidewalk</a>

A driver ploughed his white Ryder rental van into a crowd in Toronto on Monday, killing 10 people and injuring 15 along a roughly mile-long (1.6-km) stretch of sidewalk thronged with lunch-hour pedestrians, police said.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/inclusion-of-death-penalty-will-have-disastrous-consequence-on-children-former-delhi-high-court-chief-justice-132391">Death penalty for child rapists: 'Futile... disastrous consequences for children,' says ex-Delhi HC chief justice</a>

After the Delhi High Court reprimanded the Centre over the ordinance passed to amend the POCSO Act, the former Delhi High Court chief justice AP Shah said on Monday that the enhancement of punishment will have "disastrous consequences for children".&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china--18-dead-in-lounge-fire-arson-suspected-132389">18 dead in China karaoke lounge fire arson suspected</a>

A major fire broke out in a three storey building in Qingyuan city in China on Tuesday. At least 18 people are reported to be killed and five people are injured.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/former-us-president-george-hw-bush-admitted-to-houston-hospital-132384">Day</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/former-us-president-george-hw-bush-admitted-to-houston-hospital-132384"> after wife's funeral, ex-US President George HW Bush admitted to hospital</a>

Former US President George HW Bush was admitted to a Houston hospital for an infection that spread to his blood a day after the funeral of Barbara Bush, his wife of seven decades, a family spokesman said on Monday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/achieved-things-beyond-stated-objectives-iaf-chief-on-mega-exercise-132386">Indian Air Force prepared to deal with two-front war, hints chief</a>

The Indian Air Force effectively achieved relocation and re-balancing of its assets from one sector to another during a just-concluded mega exercise, Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa said on Monday, hinting at its preparedness to deal with a two-front war.

 
&nbsp;

10 dead, 15 injured after van ploughs into crowd on Toronto sidewalk A driver ploughed his white Ryder rental van into a crowd in Toronto on Monday, killing 10 people and injuring 15 along a roughly mile-long (1.6-km) stretch of sidewalk thronged with lunch-hour pedestrians, police said. Death penalty for child rapists: 'Futile... disastrous consequences for children,' says ex-Delhi HC chief justice After the Delhi High Court reprimanded the Centre over the ordinance passed to amend the POCSO Act, the former Delhi High Court chief justice AP Shah said on Monday that the enhancement of punishment will have "disastrous consequences for children". 18 dead in China karaoke lounge fire arson suspected A major fire broke out in a three storey building in Qingyuan city in China on Tuesday. At least 18 people are reported to be killed and five people are injured. Day after wife's funeral, ex-US President George HW Bush admitted to hospital Former US President George HW Bush was admitted to a Houston hospital for an infection that spread to his blood a day after the funeral of Barbara Bush, his wife of seven decades, a family spokesman said on Monday. Indian Air Force prepared to deal with two-front war, hints chief The Indian Air Force effectively achieved relocation and re-balancing of its assets from one sector to another during a just-concluded mega exercise, Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa said on Monday, hinting at its preparedness to deal with a two-front war.

News brief: Big stories of the day

A 16-year-old schoolgirl was raped by her principal in Sonipat, Haryana, news reports said Thursday.&nbsp;

The reports said that while the principal was raping the girl, he sent a dummy candidate in her stead to take a Class X examination.&nbsp;

The reports added that police had booked the principal and two women in whose house the rape had taken place. All three have been absconding since Tuesday night.&nbsp;

The victim&#39;s father, in his complaint, said his daughter was having trouble with her examinations.

The father then entered into an agreement with the principal that a dummy candidate would be sent to take his daughter&#39;s exams.&nbsp;

The father, the reports said, was ready to pay Rs 10,000 for the deal.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On the day&nbsp;of the exam, the father said, the principal called him and his daughter to the house where the attack eventually took place.&nbsp;

The father was then instructed to pick up his daughter after the examination. But when he got there again, his daughter told him she had been raped by her principal in connivance with the two women.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The father added that while he was talking to his daughter, the principal and the two women escaped.&nbsp;

Police have booked a case against the principal and the two women under the Prevention of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.&nbsp;

A case has been booked against the principal and two women in whose home the attack took place

A 16-year-old schoolgirl was raped by her principal in Sonipat, Haryana, news reports said Thursday. The reports said that while the principal was raping the girl, he sent a dummy candidate in her stead to take a Class X examination. The reports added that police had booked the principal and two women in whose house the rape had taken place. All three have been absconding since Tuesday night. The victim's father, in his complaint, said his daughter was having trouble with her examinations. The father then entered into an agreement with the principal that a dummy candidate would be sent to take his daughter's exams. The father, the reports said, was ready to pay Rs 10,000 for the deal. On the day of the exam, the father said, the principal called him and his daughter to the house where the attack eventually took place. The father was then instructed to pick up his daughter after the examination. But when he got there again, his daughter told him she had been raped by her principal in connivance with the two women. The father added that while he was talking to his daughter, the principal and the two women escaped. Police have booked a case against the principal and the two women under the Prevention of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

Haryana: Principal strikes deal with father, rapes daughter

Mumbai Police have registered an FIR against an unknown person in the alleged molestation of an actress on a Delhi-Mumbai Vistara flight.&nbsp;

The FIR has been registered under section 354 (sexual harassment) of the IPC and the POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) Act.&nbsp;

The actress is 17.&nbsp;

Mumbai Police said earlier that they had recorded the actress&#39; statement and were registering an offence accordingly.&nbsp;

The actress had said earlier that she was molested on an Air Vistara flight.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/dangal-girl-zaira-wasim-alleges-molestation-attempt-in-delhi-mumbai-flight-26352" target="_blank">Actress alleges molestation attempt on Delhi-Mumbai flight</a>

She said that a co-passenger sitting behind her, a middle-aged man, had put his feet on her armrest.&nbsp;

When she protested, the man cited turbulence as the reason for putting his feet on her armrest.&nbsp;

The actress added that, to her horror, the man had then proceeded to touch her back and neck with his feet.&nbsp;

The actress had alleged that a co-passenger had molested her on an Air Vistara flight

Mumbai Police have registered an FIR against an unknown person in the alleged molestation of an actress on a Delhi-Mumbai Vistara flight. The FIR has been registered under section 354 (sexual harassment) of the IPC and the POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) Act. The actress is 17. Mumbai Police said earlier that they had recorded the actress' statement and were registering an offence accordingly. The actress had said earlier that she was molested on an Air Vistara flight. Also read: Actress alleges molestation attempt on Delhi-Mumbai flight She said that a co-passenger sitting behind her, a middle-aged man, had put his feet on her armrest. When she protested, the man cited turbulence as the reason for putting his feet on her armrest. The actress added that, to her horror, the man had then proceeded to touch her back and neck with his feet.

Actress molestation case: Mumbai Police register FIR against unknown person

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