Jeypore,3rd Sept 2025: A Legal Awareness Camp on public legal consciousness was held at the Government Municipal Girls’ High School, Jeypore, under the guidance of Shri Pradeep Kumar Mohanty, District Judge and Chairman of the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA). The camp focused on important legal issues such as POCSO Act and prevention and redressal of acid attacks.
The chief guest at the event was Smt. Pradyomayee Sujata, Secretary and Judicial Officer of the District Legal Services Authority, Koraput, Jeypore. Other notable guests included:
Dr. B. Gayatri Devi, Specialist
Dr. Sugandhini, In-charge District Medical Officer, Koraput
Teachers and staff of the Municipal Girls’ High School, including Smt. Priyadarshini, Assistant Teacher.
Key Topics and Highlights:
Victims of acid attacks are entitled to free medical treatment and compensation of ₹3 lakhs.
States and Union Territories must take active measures to:
Expedite investigation and trial of acid attack cases
Complete such trials within a specific time frame
As per Supreme Court directives, all States/UTs that have established or are in the process of forming Victim Compensation Schemes (VCS) must implement provisions ensuring:
Minimum compensation of ₹3 lakhs for acid attack survivors to cover treatment and rehabilitation costs
The first instalment of ₹1 lakh should be provided within 15 days of the incident or once it comes to the notice of authorities
The remaining ₹2 lakhs should be disbursed as soon as possible, preferably within two months
Focus on POCSO Act:
The event also addressed the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, which aims to protect children from all forms of sexual abuse, exploitation, and pornography. This Act:
Defines any person under the age of 18 as a child
Provides child-friendly legal procedures
Establishes special courts for speedy trial
Ensures strict punishment for offenders
Offers compensation, rehabilitation, and medical aid to the victims
Under NALSA’s (National Legal Services Authority) guidelines, mandatory reporting mechanisms and support services are included for effective implementation of POCSO and victim support programs.