Rayalaseema's Child Safety Crisis: 5,408 POCSO Cases Pending as Justice Delayed

Andhra Pradesh has reported a decline in cases under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act in 2025, but the relief is uneven: Chittoor district in Rayalaseema saw a rise in cases, while Anantapur and Kurnool recorded falls. The mixed trend underscores persistent vulnerabilities and gaps in child protection across the region, even as police investigations become increasingly technology-driven.

Despite the overall drop, 5,408 POCSO cases remain pending in exclusive courts, according to a report by K. Umashanker. Forensic delays, staff shortages, social stigma, and fear of reporting continue to obstruct timely justice. Experts stress that prevention, early reporting, and stronger child-protection systems are critical to addressing the root causes and ensuring swift accountability.

The backlog highlights systemic challenges in India's legal response to child sexual abuse, with implications for victim trust and public safety. As authorities push for technology-enhanced investigations, the focus must also shift to community awareness and institutional support to break the cycle of silence. Next steps include addressing forensic infrastructure and staffing deficits to expedite pending cases and restore faith in the justice system.