Expression of Affection Is Not Sexual Assault, Rules Bombay High Court by Acquitting 25-Year-Old Under POCSO
In Ravindra v. State of Maharashtra, the Bombay High Court set aside a conviction under POCSO and IPC, ruling that saying “I love you” and holding hands without sexual intent does not constitute sexual assault or harassment. The Court emphasized that criminal liability under POCSO requires proof of sexual intent and physical contact of a sexual nature. It clarified that mere expressions of affection, without more, cannot satisfy the statutory threshold for criminal prosecution.