Kozhikode: Social justice department officials in Malappuram are effectively using a 2014 victim compensation scheme in the case of girls who falls under POCSO victims.
In a few months, Rs 13.5 lakh has been recommended as compensation to five victims. Of this, Rs 4 lakh has been sanctioned to two girls who were victims in two separate cases filed under Tirur police station.
Cases of victims sent for recommendation include a 13 and 11-year-old sisters of Kottakkal sex abuse in which the accused include their mother, step-father and brother.
The less known victim compensation scheme provides a financial remedy for loss of their education, family and job. The district legal service authority should recommend for the compensation to Kerala Legal Service Authority (KLSA) after going through the report of district probation officer or child protection officer.
“Though the rule applies to all victims, they often lie on paper. So we thought of providing compensation for the most vulnerable victims, the girls under POCSO law,” said Malappuram child protection officer, Sameer Machingal.
The maximum amount to be given as compensation under the Act is Rs 3 lakh and an additional Rs 1.5 lakh for victims who are below 12 years of age.
The District Legal Services Authority took a special interest in the case of Kottakkal victims and recommended for compensation though the case is in the trial stage.
“In Kottakkal case, close relatives are among the accused. Punishment for them means loss of family for the victims. So, the victims are in dire need of help,” said an SJ department official.
