To deal with child abuse cases, the Government has brought in a special law, called the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act 2012. The Act came into force with effect from 14th November, 2012. The Act provides protection to children, from the offences of sexual assault, sexual harassment and pornography. The Act incorporates child-friendly procedures for reporting, recording of offences, investigation and trial of offences. The Act provides for stringent punishments. The extent of punishments under the Act range from 3 years to life imprisonment along with fine, depending on the gravity of the offence. It provides precise definitions for different forms of sexual abuse, including penetrative and non-penetrative sexual assault, sexual harassment.
