Man Jailed Under POCSO For Relationship With Minor Gets Bail After She Turns 18, Marries In Court

Last Updated:February 13, 2026, 17:56 IST

On October 7, 2024, the girl's family lodged a complaint at a police station accusing the man of sexually assaulting the girl, who was then a minor

A 24-year-old man, who had spent 16 months in jail under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, was granted bail on Wednesday and subsequently married his girlfriend, who has now turned 18. The marriage took place within the premises of the Bangaon Sub-Divisional Court in West Bengal after the court granted permission.

According to case details, the two had been in a relationship since the girl was 16 and the man was 22, at a time when she was a minor. On October 7, 2024, the girl’s family lodged a complaint at a police station accusing the man of sexually assaulting a minor. Police registered a case under the POCSO Act and arrested him. He had remained in judicial custody since then.

When the matter came up for hearing on Wednesday before Additional District and Sessions Judge Kallol Kumar Das, the girl had attained the age of 18. As reported by The Times of India, both individuals informed the court that they wished to marry and live together. The girl’s family also conveyed its acceptance of the relationship.

After hearing both sides, the court granted the man bail on a personal bond of Rs 10,000 and allowed the marriage. The couple then married on the court premises. Legal experts note that consent remains a complex issue in POCSO cases, as the law treats any physical relationship involving a person below 18 as a criminal offence. In this instance, the court took into account the girl’s stated wishes and the family’s consent after she had become an adult.

Following his release on bail, the couple has decided to live together. Police sources said that the legal process in the case will continue as per procedure.

The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, enacted in 2012, is a special law aimed at safeguarding children below 18 from sexual offences. It applies equally to boys and girls. The law covers offences including sexual harassment, sexual assault, aggravated assault, child pornography and the use of children for sexual exploitation.

Punishments under the Act vary depending on the severity of the offence and can range from three years’ imprisonment to life imprisonment, along with fines in serious cases. The law also strictly prohibits disclosure of the identity of a child victim, and the media is barred from publishing names or any details that may reveal identity.

POCSO cases are heard in special courts to ensure speedy trials and to minimise trauma for the child. Experts say the Act provides a strong legal framework for child protection, though effective implementation and awareness remain crucial.

News india Man Jailed Under POCSO For Relationship With Minor Gets Bail After She Turns 18, Marries In Court

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