Section 8 of POCSO : Section 8: Punishment For Sexual Assault

Explanation using Example

Imagine a scenario where a school sports coach touches a 14-year-old student inappropriately during a training session. The student reports this to their parents, who then file a complaint with the police. An investigation ensues, and the coach is charged with sexual assault under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012. Under Section 8 of this Act, the coach, if found guilty, would face a mandatory minimum imprisonment of three years, which could extend up to five years, along with a fine. This section ensures that those who commit sexual assault against children face a substantial period of imprisonment.