Legal Perspectives On Cyberbullying And Child Victimization: Strategies For Prevention In India

Panchamy Babu, Research Scholar, VIT University, Chennai Campus, Vandalur - Kelambakkam Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Dr. Ganesan K, Associate Professor, VIT University, Chennai Campus, Vandalur - Kelambakkam Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu

ABSTRACT

In India, cyberbullying has become a major concern for children's welfare, with kids being especially vulnerable due to the country's extensive digital infrastructure. This paper looks at the laws about cyberbullying and child victimization in India. The Information Technology Act of 2000, the Indian Penal Code of 1860, the Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses Act of 2012, the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act of 2015, and the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act of 1989 are the main legislations that are examined in this paper. The changing nature of cyberbullying methods, the difficulty in identifying perpetrators, and the emotional and psychological impact on victims that may not be sufficiently addressed by present legal remedies are just a few of the major obstacles the study finds in putting existing legal frameworks into practice. The study suggests ways to stop this, like teaching and awareness programs, making the laws stronger, teamwork between police and tech companies, making ways to report online, and giving mental and recovery help for victims. The paper wants to help people understand cyberbullying in India and provide a ground for more research and policy development. India has the potential to provide a safer online environment for its children through enhancing the legal framework and encouraging digital literacy.

Keywords: Child victimization, Cyberbullying, IPC, IT act, JJ Act & POCSO Act.