POCSO Act: Shield or Weapon of Exploitation?

The Allahabad High Court highlighted concerns about the misuse of the POCSO Act, originally meant to protect minors from sexual exploitation. The court underscored the importance of distinguishing between consensual adolescent relationships and criminal offenses when granting bail, as seen in the case of an 18-year-old accused of rape.

The Allahabad High Court recently raised concerns regarding the misuse of the Prevention of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, highlighting its potential to exploit rather than protect children.

In a bail hearing for an 18-year-old accused of raping a 16-year-old, Justice Krishan Pahal emphasized that the Act should not criminalize consensual relationships between teenagers, recognizing love-driven consensual relationships.

The court granted bail, noting the absence of medical evidence, no prior criminal record for the accused, and a significant delay in the FIR, while withholding judgment on the core merits of the case.

(With inputs from agencies.)