Calcutta HC Allows Recross-Examination in POCSO Case, Citing 'Merits'

• Calcutta High Court allows recross-examination of witnesses in a POCSO case, making an exception to the norm.
• Justice Apurba Sinha Ray set aside a trial court order that disallowed the prayer for recross-examination of seven key witnesses.
• The court emphasized that while vulnerable witnesses need protection, each case must be judged on its own merits.
• The decision was made after the accused's new counsel argued that previous cross-examination was deficient, potentially hindering a proper defense.
• The High Court directed the special POCSO court to allow the recross-examination, deeming it 'absolutely essential' for the accused's defense.