What is Age of Consent?
Historical Background
Key Points
8 points- 1.
In India, the age of consent is 18 years as per the POCSO Act, 2012 and the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2013.
- 2.
Sexual activity with a person below the age of consent is a punishable offence under the law.
- 3.
The law aims to protect children from sexual exploitation and abuse.
- 4.
The age of consent is a subject of debate, with some arguing for a lower age to recognize adolescent sexuality.
- 5.
Arguments against lowering the age of consent cite concerns about child marriage, trafficking, and abuse.
- 6.
The Law Commission of India has examined the issue of the age of consent in its reports.
- 7.
Different countries have different ages of consent, reflecting varying cultural and social norms.
- 8.
The concept of 'close-in-age' exemptions is sometimes considered to address consensual relationships between adolescents.
Visual Insights
Age of Consent: India vs. Select Countries
Comparison of the age of consent in India with other countries, highlighting the varying legal and social contexts.
| Country | Age of Consent | Legal Framework | Social Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| India | 18 years | POCSO Act, IPC | Emphasis on parental authority and protection of minors |
| United Kingdom | 16 years | Sexual Offences Act 2003 | Recognizes adolescent autonomy with safeguards |
| France | 15 years | Penal Code | Lower age of consent with provisions for exploitation |
| United States (Varies by State) | 16-18 years | State Laws | Significant variation across states reflecting diverse social norms |
Recent Developments
5 developmentsThe Supreme Court is considering the issue of misuse of the POCSO Act in consensual adolescent relationships.
The Law Commission has submitted reports on the age of consent.
Public debates and discussions on the need to balance child protection and adolescent autonomy.
Calls for a nuanced approach to address consensual relationships between adolescents.
Consideration of 'close-in-age' exemptions to avoid criminalizing genuine adolescent relationships.