Delhi High Court Lays Down Guidelines for Quashing POCSO Cases Involving Consensual Adolescent Relationships

The Delhi High Court laid down guidelines for quashing criminal proceedings under the POCSO Act in cases involving consensual adolescent relationships.

Noting the disconnect between rigid legal constructs and lived realities, the Court distinguished between de jure victims and those who suffer actual harm.

The Court held that when parties have married and started a family, the decision to quash must prioritize the best interests of the victims and their children.

Judges must ensure the minor consented freely, no violence occurred, and the union is stable. This approach prevents negative outcomes for families in cases lacking actual abuse.

[Harmeet Singh v. State of GNCT Delhi]