THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Additional DGP in charge of law and order MR Ajithkumar submitted a report to the Human Rights Commission openly admitting the police's lapses in the investigation of POCSO cases. The commission forwarded the report to the High Court Registrar and the Additional Chief Secretary, Home Department for further action.

According to the report, there is delay in the investigation and failure to collect evidence against the accused. Superiors are failing in supervision during investigation and trial. Victims and witnesses change their statements in favour of the accused at trial. The report also states that the victims and relatives are settling cases by taking money and benefits from the accused outside the court. Acting Chairperson K Baijunath was seeking an explanation from the police in a public interest petition to avoid the reduction of punishment in POCSO cases.

Confidential statements should be recorded

The ADGP also gave suggestions to increase the rate of punishment. The confidential statement of the victim and key witnesses should be recorded in the court to avoid changing the statement in favour of the accused. Circumstantial and scientific evidence must be found to prove the crime. Chemical examination results, scene plan, birth certificate and medical examination certificate should be submitted along with the charge sheet. Evidence should be discussed with the investigating officer and legal advice should be sought before filing a charge sheet.

Inspection should be strengthened

The district police chiefs should review the progress of the investigation of POCSO cases in the monthly crime conference. The District Nodal Officer should verify the evidence collected by the investigating officers. A police officer knowledgeable in the POCSO Act should be appointed as a permanent assistant in the trial. If the victim changes allegiance, the victim compensation paid till then should be taken back. In cases where relatives are accused, the victim should be kept safe. The victim should be visited regularly by the Victim Liaison Officer. The court should be informed if the defendant tries to influence.