The government has formally approved significantly stricter penalties for crimes involving the exploitation of children, introducing tougher legal consequences that include up to 10 years of imprisonment and fines of up to Rs10 million (1 crore). The move marks a major step toward strengthening the country’s child protection framework and addressing serious gaps in enforcement.
Officials stated that the enhanced punishments are specifically aimed at curbing the production, possession, and distribution of child sexual abuse material, particularly in digital spaces where such crimes have become increasingly complex and difficult to trace. By imposing harsher sentences and heavier financial penalties, authorities hope to create a strong deterrent against individuals and networks engaged in these illegal activities.
The decision is part of broader reforms designed to modernize cybercrime legislation, improve investigative capacity, and ensure greater accountability for offenders. Law enforcement agencies are expected to receive clearer legal authority and stronger mechanisms to track, prosecute, and dismantle online exploitation networks.
Government representatives emphasized that the policy reflects a zero-tolerance stance toward crimes involving children. They reiterated the state’s commitment to safeguarding vulnerable individuals, strengthening institutional responses, and ensuring that those responsible face strict legal consequences. The reforms are being presented as a critical step toward creating a safer environment for children both online and offline.
