Under POCSO, consent on trial
The law is being used to criminalize consensual relationships, harming adolescents.
A 16-year-old girl, Nithya, fled her home after a dispute with her parents over her relationship with Rajesh. She was later charged under the POCSO Act for alleged rape and kidnapping, despite claiming she left willingly. The case highlights the unintended consequences of the law, which criminalizes consensual relationships between adolescents. Experts argue that the law's strict reporting mandate undermines confidentiality and can lead to harmful outcomes for young people seeking reproductive healthcare. The Supreme Court has acknowledged these concerns and is considering a "Romeo and Juliet" clause to exempt such relationships from prosecution.
20 FEB 2026
— The Hindu
Five, including 15-year-old, booked under POCSO Act for alleged sexual abuse of girl in Kerala
27 FEB 2026
· THIS STORY — The Hindu
The Supreme Court is reviewing a "Romeo and Juliet" clause to address unintended consequences of the POCSO Act, which criminalizes consensual relationships between adolescents.
To respect publishing rights, SatyaDheesh does not host full copyrighted news copy. You can read the complete article on the publisher's platform: