Gauhati High Court Quashes 20-Year POCSO Conviction

The Gauhati High Court has set aside the 20-year jail sentence of a man convicted under the POCSO Act, citing serious lapses in investigation and lack of reliable evidence. The court noted major inconsistencies in the victim’s statements and absence of medical proof to support allegations of aggravated sexual assault.

The bench also criticised the police for procedural failures, including not providing mandatory support to the child victim. Holding that the prosecution failed to prove the case beyond reasonable doubt, the court acquitted the accused and ordered his immediate release.