Cabinet has approved the Amendments to the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences, POCSO, Act, 2012.

It will make punishment more stringent for committing sexual crimes against children including the death penalty.

The amendments also provide for levy of fines and imprisonment to curb child pornography.

Briefing reporters, Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar said the amendment is expected to discourage the trend of child sexual abuse by acting as a deterrent due to strong penal provisions incorporated in the Act.

It intends to protect the interest of vulnerable children in times of distress and ensures their safety and dignity.

The amendment is aimed to establish clarity regarding the aspects of child abuse and punishment thereof.