Thiruvananthapuram: Despite an increase in the number of courts to handle Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) cases in Kerala, more than 6,000 cases remain pending. The backlog is largely due to delays in receiving forensic test samples.

Following a Supreme Court directive to complete the investigation and disposal of POCSO cases in a timely manner, the state set up additional fast-track courts and created a special unit to investigate such cases.

After the enactment of the POCSO Act in 2012, the number of cases rose sharply, leading to delays in completion. Acting on the Supreme Court’s order, the government gradually increased the number of courts. Fourteen exclusive POCSO courts and 56 fast-track special courts were established.

In addition, some courts in various districts were designated as children’s courts. However, cases continue to face delays because forensic examination reports are not received on time. The government maintains that POCSO cases are now being disposed of more quickly, after the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

In Thiruvananthapuram district alone, despite having seven fast-track special courts and one additional district and sessions court, 1,370 cases were pending as of July.

In Kozhikode district, three fast-track special courts and one additional district and sessions court are handling such cases, with 642 still pending.

In Ernakulam district, 704 POCSO cases remain unresolved, with three fast-track courts and two other courts hearing them.