On January 10, the Supreme Court in State of Uttar Pradesh versus Anurudh & Anr. highlighted growing misuse of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO), 2012. The court asked the Union government to consider changes that would exempt genuine adolescent, consensual, romantic relationships involving minors from strict POCSO penalties. In India, the age of consent is fixed at 18 years under POCSO, making any sexual act with a minor statutory rape regardless of the minor's consent. The law aims to protect children but has sometimes been used in cases involving consensual sex between teenagers aged 16 to 18. Studies show many POCSO cases involve adolescent romances where victims do not wish to testify against their partners. Advocates argue that the law fails to recognise teenage sexuality and calls for shifting focus towards sex education and consent awareness. Western countries often set the age of consent at 16, with close-in-age exceptions to protect young couples. Critics worry lowering the age may weaken child protection and aid exploitation. Legal reports and past Parliament decisions have consistently upheld 18 as the age of consent to provide clear protection lines. Judges have expressed concern over the trauma caused by strict enforcement in consensual cases, with the Supreme Court acknowledging this but maintaining the law's intent. Going forward, experts suggest a balanced approach: keeping 18 as the legal age but allowing close-in-age exemptions for 16-18-year-olds. Coupled with stronger sex education and judicial safeguards, this could protect true adolescent relationships while guarding against abuse. The Supreme Court's call signals a need for legal reform to clarify confusing standards and reduce misuse, aiming to respect young people’s rights without compromising child safety.