Team Goemkarponn
TALEIGAO: Addressing the complexities of child protection cases in the Children’s Court, Mrs. Milena Gomes e Pinto, Deputy Director of Prosecution, provided a comprehensive legal perspective on the challenges and responsibilities of prosecutors in securing justice for child victims.
Speaking at a guest lecture at Goa University’s D.D. Kosambi School of Social Sciences and Behavioural Studies, she underscored the critical role of the prosecution in upholding child rights, while emphasizing the need for multi-stakeholder collaboration in ensuring justice and support for victims.
Highlighting the legal safeguards under the Goa Children’s Act, 2003, and the POCSO Act, 2012, Gomes e Pinto noted that while these laws provide a strong legal framework, their effectiveness depends on how cases are handled and the support systems available for child survivors.
She emphasized that prosecutors work within the judicial system to build strong cases, but achieving justice requires coordinated efforts between law enforcement, social workers, and victim support agencies.
One of the key challenges discussed was victim and witness protection. She pointed out that child victims often face immense pressure, fear, and emotional distress, leading to instances where they retract statements or turn hostile in court.
To address this, she advocated for enhanced legal safeguards and psychological support mechanisms to ensure that children feel safe and empowered to testify.
Gomes e Pinto also addressed the importance of victim compensation as a crucial element in the rehabilitation process. While government schemes exist to provide financial assistance to survivors, she noted that procedural delays often hinder timely access to these benefits.
She stressed the need for streamlined processes and proactive interventions to ensure that survivors receive the aid they are entitled to without unnecessary obstacles.
Another significant issue discussed was witness intimidation and the need for stronger protective measures. She emphasized that a child-friendly justice system must ensure that witnesses, especially minors, are safeguarded from coercion and undue influence.
Collaborative efforts between the judiciary, prosecution, law enforcement, and child welfare organizations can help mitigate these challenges and strengthen the justice delivery system.
The lecture concluded with an engaging discussion where students and faculty members reflected on the evolving role of prosecution in child protection and the systemic changes needed to enhance legal responses to crimes against children.
Gomes e Pinto reaffirmed that the pursuit of justice is not limited to securing convictions but extends to ensuring that survivors receive adequate protection, support, and rehabilitation. She emphasized that a collective approach involving legal professionals, social workers, and policymakers is essential in creating a justice system that truly prioritizes the best interests of the child.
Her insights provided a deeper understanding of the legal challenges and solutions in child protection, reinforcing the importance of continuous improvements in judicial processes and victim support frameworks.
