The figures show that fast-track special courts in the state take an average of 380 days to conclude trials under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act. By contrast, the average duration stands at 1,639.5 days in Delhi, 1,292.5 days in Gujarat, and 861 days in Uttar Pradesh.
Officials say the numbers reflect differences in case management, court infrastructure and procedural efficiency. The trial period measured in the data begins when a court takes cognizance after a charge sheet is filed and ends with the final verdict. It does not include police investigation time prior to trial.
As of 31 December 2025, more than 224,000 POCSO cases were pending across 29 states and Union Territories nationwide, underscoring the scale of backlog facing the justice system. To address delays, authorities have established 774 fast-track special courts, including 398 dedicated e-POCSO courts designed exclusively for such cases.
Government officials attribute Madhya Pradesh’s shorter timelines partly to administrative monitoring and the expansion of child-friendly court infrastructure. Vulnerable Witness Deposition Centres have been set up in several court complexes to help minors testify in a secure, less intimidating environment. More than 10,000 personnel—including judges, prosecutors and court staff—have received specialized training in handling child witnesses sensitively.
State Health and Medical Education Minister Narendra Shivaji Patel said prompt verdicts are essential in crimes involving minors. “Justice is only justice if delivered promptly. Delays amount to prolonged injustice. We are satisfied that we have made every effort to ensure victims receive timely justice,” he said.
Legal experts note that while faster trials can reduce trauma for victims, maintaining procedural fairness and thorough evidence evaluation remains equally critical. They emphasize that sustained investment in judicial capacity, forensic resources and witness protection will determine whether quicker case disposal rates can be replicated elsewhere.
The data is expected to intensify discussion among policymakers on improving judicial efficiency and ensuring uniform standards in handling crimes against children across states.
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