The Rajya Sabha passed the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Bill, 2011 by a voice vote.

The bill provides for protection of children from offences of sexual assault, sexual harassment and pornography and provides for establishment of special courts for trial of such offences.

Piloting the bill yesterday, Minister for Women and Child Development Krishna Tirath expressed concern over the increasing number of incidents between 2001 and 2010.

She said the bill would contribute to enforcement of the right of all children to safety, security and protection from sexual abuse and exploitation. She said it provides for stringent action against the culprits.