Bombay High Court Quashes POCSO Case, Orders Rs 1.5 Lakh Laptop Purchase for Minor

In a significant order, the Bombay High Court quashed a case registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act against a 52-year-old businessman from Pune after the minor girl and her family informed the court that the complaint had arisen from a misunderstanding.

However, while setting aside the criminal proceedings, the court imposed a cost of Rs 1.5 lakh on the accused and directed that the amount be used to purchase a laptop for the girl to support her education.

Court Directs Purchase of MacBook or Equivalent

Justice Ashwin D Bhobe directed the High Court Registry to use the deposited amount to purchase the latest version of a MacBook or another suitable laptop, depending on the girl’s academic requirements and preference.

The court further instructed that the 17-year-old be consulted before making the purchase so that the device meets her educational needs. Any remaining amount from the Rs 1.5 lakh, after buying the laptop, will be transferred to the High Court Employees Medical Welfare Fund.

Allegations and FIR

The case originated after allegations were made against the girl’s maternal uncle. According to the initial complaint, the alleged misconduct began while he was driving her to school for her Class 11 examinations. The FIR stated that he allegedly asked if he could be her boyfriend and continued to send her persistent messages.

In August 2024, during a grocery trip, he allegedly expressed love, asked for a kiss, and touched her inappropriately. The girl first confided in a school counsellor and later informed her grandmother, which led to the registration of the FIR in Mumbai under provisions of the POCSO Act.

Stand Changes During Proceedings

During the hearing, the narrative shifted. Counsel for the accused argued that the complaint stemmed from a misunderstanding that had since been resolved within the family.

The girl and her parents appeared before the court and confirmed that they did not wish to continue with the criminal case. They stated that the dispute had been amicably settled and further legal proceedings would not serve any meaningful purpose.

The state prosecutor acknowledged the family’s position and submitted that continuing the trial may not yield any constructive outcome. However, the prosecution urged the court to impose costs considering the seriousness of the allegations and the legal process already initiated.

Balancing Justice and Welfare

Taking note of the settlement and the victim’s stance, the court exercised its powers to quash the proceedings while imposing financial costs on the accused. The unusual direction to purchase a laptop reflects the court’s attempt to ensure the minor’s academic advancement while formally closing the case.

The order has drawn attention for its balanced approach — acknowledging the seriousness of POCSO allegations while also considering the victim’s present position and educational welfare.