Madras High Court Flags POCSO Misuse in Consensual Teen Relationships, Acquits Accused

The Madras High Court observed that young men frequently face criminalization under the POCSO Act due to parental opposition to consensual adolescent relationships.

While setting aside the conviction of a man sentenced to 20 years in prison, Justice N Mala noted that such cases often arise when girls are pressured by parents to initiate proceedings.

The Court acquitted the accused after finding that the prosecution failed to legally prove the victim’s age, relying on photocopies instead of original documents.

Further directing the Tamil Nadu government to conduct awareness campaigns to prevent the misuse of the Act in genuine teenage relationships.

[Mahesh v. State of Tamil Nadu]