Supreme Court Calls for Rethink on Age of Consent in Romantic Cases

The Supreme Court has emphasized the need to differentiate between criminal rape cases and genuine romantic relationships involving young people near adulthood. The debate focuses on whether to lower the age of consent from 18 to 16 under the POCSO Act, aiming to protect young couples from unfair legal implications.

The Supreme Court has highlighted the importance of distinguishing between criminal acts of rape and consensual romantic relationships among young individuals nearing the age of consent.

This comes amid discussions on whether the age of consent under the POCSO Act should be reduced from 18 to 16. The bench underscored societal realities where genuine couples face legal challenges for consensual activities.

The court's observations were made during a petition review, with senior advocate H S Phoolka representing the petitioner organization. The Centre maintains the age of consent was set to protect minors from exploitation.

(With inputs from agencies.)