The limits of POCSO Updated: Updated: March 15, 2021 22:46 IST A recent judgment highlights the need to reconsider POCSO’s absolutist approach to adolescent sexuality needs Share Article Photo used for illustration purpose only. | Photo Credit: Getty Images A recent judgment highlights the need to reconsider POCSO’s absolutist approach to adolescent sexuality needs A single bench of the Madras High Court recently allowed a petition seeking to quash a case of kidnap, aggravated penetrative sexual assault and aggravated sexual assault of a minor. Aggravated penetrative sexual assault under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012 is the equivalent provision for aggravated rape. A person can be charged with this offence in certain aggravating circumstances, such as if the rape occurs within a relationship of trust or authority, or if it leads to pregnancy, among others. Under POCSO, the consent of a person under the age of 18 is irrelevant, regardless of the nature and circumstance of the sexual interaction, or the particulars of the person with whom it takes place. This means that any sex with a minor is rape.