Althia Women’s Association Demands POCSO Action Based on Hema Committee Report Findings

The Althia Women’s Association has formally requested the Home Department to initiate a POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses) case, citing specific findings in the Hema Committee report. The complaint, referencing paragraph 82 on page 41 of the report, underscores that certain crimes outlined in the report fall under the POCSO Act.

In their letter to the Additional Chief Secretary of the Home Department, the association argued that the committee’s report makes a clear distinction between crimes affecting girls and women, justifying the need for POCSO-related action. P.E. Usha, representing the association, highlighted that paragraph 82 of the report addresses the reluctance of victims to disclose their experiences of sexual violence due to fear of retaliation, and emphasizes the importance of maintaining confidentiality to protect these victims.

The complaint asserts that, per section 19 (1) of the POCSO Act, the police should be notified when such information is available. It urges the Home Department to review the report’s findings and take appropriate action while ensuring the privacy and safety of the victims.

The association stressed that implementing these measures is crucial for ensuring that young women in the arts can work and grow without fear. They called on the government to act swiftly in response to the report’s findings, which were based on direct testimonies gathered by a committee led by a former High Court judge.