NationalThursday, 3 September 2026·The Hindu - National
Kerala High Court on POCSO: consent is irrelevant in minor relationships; 2012 Act and 10-year sentence upheld
The Kerala High Court held that consent is irrelevant in a relationship involving a minor under the POCSO Act, 2012, while upholding a 10-year sentence.
Key highlights
Direct fact
On September 2, 2026, the Kerala High Court held that consent is irrelevant in a love relationship involving a minor, while dismissing a plea against conviction under the POCSO Act, 2012.
Key specifics
- Justice A. Badharudeen delivered the ruling in the Kerala High Court.
- The accused had been convicted under the POCSO Act, 2012 and the Indian Penal Code for rape and sexual assault.
- The trial court sentenced the accused to 10 years’ imprisonment and a fine of ₹50,000.
- The special court in Alappuzha handled the trial of offences relating to atrocities against women and children, including POCSO cases.
- The High Court said there was no scope for a reduced sentence because the trial court had already awarded the minimum possible punishment.
Exam lens
Polity-law MCQ: POCSO Act, 2012, minor consent, 10 years, ₹50,000, Alappuzha special court — TNPSC may ask the legal principle that consent is irrelevant when the victim is a minor.