Contributor,
Shubhankar C
Advocate
Chairperson
Adi Shankara Foundation
Shubhankar C
Advocate
Chairperson
Adi Shankara Foundation
In today’s society, every individual faces various challenges, and among them, one of the most sensitive and serious concerns is sexual misconduct, especially involving minors. To protect children from such exploitation, the Government of India has introduced the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. This law is a critical step in safeguarding the rights and dignity of children under the age of 18.
The POCSO Act makes it clear that any form of sexual activity involving a child below 18 years of age is an offence, regardless of consent. Legally, a child cannot give valid consent, and therefore, even if both parties are willing, any physical relationship involving a minor is treated as a criminal act. This becomes particularly relevant in the age group of 15–18 years, where adolescents often experience emotional and physical attraction. While such feelings are natural, acting upon them without understanding the legal consequences can have lifelong implications.
In many instances, boys are unaware of the gravity of such situations and end up facing serious charges under the POCSO Act. These offences are non-bailable, meaning the accused may be taken into custody and face prolonged legal battles, damaging their education, career, and future prospects. Even in cases where there was mutual consent, the law does not differentiate – because the protection of minors takes precedence over consent.
It is essential for boys, especially teenagers, to be aware of the law, its purpose, and the possible consequences of crossing legal boundaries. This awareness should be instilled through education, both at school and at home, in a responsible and empathetic manner. Understanding the law is not about fearing it, but about respecting it and ensuring one’s actions do not unintentionally cause harm to themselves or others.
At the same time, it is important to acknowledge that misuse of the law, though rare, can occur. Hence, both caution and compassion must guide our actions. This message is not to blame any gender but to emphasize the need for careful conduct, informed choices, and a deep respect for the law. Every young person deserves a bright future – and staying informed is the first step in protecting it.
The POCSO Act makes it clear that any form of sexual activity involving a child below 18 years of age is an offence, regardless of consent. Legally, a child cannot give valid consent, and therefore, even if both parties are willing, any physical relationship involving a minor is treated as a criminal act. This becomes particularly relevant in the age group of 15–18 years, where adolescents often experience emotional and physical attraction. While such feelings are natural, acting upon them without understanding the legal consequences can have lifelong implications.
In many instances, boys are unaware of the gravity of such situations and end up facing serious charges under the POCSO Act. These offences are non-bailable, meaning the accused may be taken into custody and face prolonged legal battles, damaging their education, career, and future prospects. Even in cases where there was mutual consent, the law does not differentiate – because the protection of minors takes precedence over consent.
It is essential for boys, especially teenagers, to be aware of the law, its purpose, and the possible consequences of crossing legal boundaries. This awareness should be instilled through education, both at school and at home, in a responsible and empathetic manner. Understanding the law is not about fearing it, but about respecting it and ensuring one’s actions do not unintentionally cause harm to themselves or others.
At the same time, it is important to acknowledge that misuse of the law, though rare, can occur. Hence, both caution and compassion must guide our actions. This message is not to blame any gender but to emphasize the need for careful conduct, informed choices, and a deep respect for the law. Every young person deserves a bright future – and staying informed is the first step in protecting it.
