New Delhi: Supreme Court judge Justice J.B. Pardiwala expressed concern on Sunday that existing investigative methodologies are not adequately equipped to tackle the complex nature of cybercrimes. He noted that the girl child is particularly vulnerable in the online space, facing a heightened risk of victimization.
Justice Pardiwala made these remarks at the concluding ceremony of a national consultation focused on safeguarding the girl child, an event organized by the Supreme Court’s Juvenile Justice Committee in collaboration with UNICEF India. He emphasized that while consultations and policy discussions are important, they are insufficient on their own. “Talking alone is not enough,” he stated, stressing the need for tangible action at the grassroots level and a workforce driven by compassion and empathy.
Reflecting on the nation’s progress since independence, Justice Pardiwala pointed out that collective efforts to protect children often began late. He suggested that children, not being a voting bloc, are frequently overlooked by policymakers. Addressing the rapidly advancing digital landscape, he acknowledged both the opportunities and the significant risks presented by the internet, especially for girls.
“Perpetrators capitalize on the anonymity, accessibility and interconnectedness of the digital domain to commit crimes against women and girls. Our present investigative methodologies are not attuned to effectively handle complex crimes committed in cyberspace,” Justice Pardiwala explained. He underscored the necessity for stronger legal protections, enhanced law enforcement capabilities, and more effective utilization of technology to safeguard children online.
The judge also lamented that even after 75 years of the Constitution, India continues to struggle with improving the rights of children, particularly girls. He attributed this in part to deep-rooted societal gender biases and attitudes that hinder the effective implementation of laws and schemes designed to support the girl child.
Justice Pardiwala urged for change to begin within homes, emphasizing the importance of confronting discriminatory practices within families and communities. He concluded by stating that true societal transformation starts with mindset shifts, daily conversations, and the values parents instill in their children, advocating for a micro-level approach to foster equality and respect.