What did the Delhi High Court rule regarding consensual adolescent relationships under the POCSO Act?

The Delhi High Court observed that it would be harsh and unjust to convict individuals under the POCSO Act without definitive proof of age, especially when the age difference between the minor and the accused is only one or two years. Justice Jasmeet Singh emphasized that criminalizing consensual adolescent relationships with minimal age gaps could lead to miscarriage of justice. However, the Court clarified that this principle would not apply in cases where the minor is under 14 or 15 years old, as the age gap in such situations is significantly larger. The ruling recognizes the importance of balancing child protection with a nuanced understanding of adolescent development and relationships.