While quashing a case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act filed against a person who eloped with a teenage girl, the Madras High Court said that the law did not intend to bring within its scope cases involving adolescent teenagers in romantic relationships.

The court also urged the legislature to bring in necessary amendments under the Act, observing that the legislature has to keep pace with the changing societal needs and bring about necessary changes in law and more particularly in strict laws such as POCSO Act.

Justice N Anand Venkatesh observed that several cases under the POCSO Act were filed which involved adolescents in romantic relationships.

The court also said that such incidents should never be perceived from an adult’s point of view and without empathy as an adolescent boy sent to prison in a case of this nature will have him persecuted through his life.

Justice Venkatesh expressed concerns that the law is being misused by certain people while clarifying that the offences under the POCSO Act are serious.

“Incidents, where teenagers and young adults fall victim to offences under the POCSO Act without understanding the implication of the severity of the enactment is an issue that brings much concern to the conscience of the court”, stated the order.

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